In Oklahoma, it is illegal to marry your first cousin. State law clearly defines marriages between first cousins as incestuous, illegal, and void. Oklahoma Statutes Title 43, Section 2 states:
“Marriages between… first cousins are declared to be incestuous, illegal and void, and are expressly prohibited.”
Attempting to marry your first cousin in Oklahoma is not just void-it is a criminal offense. Those involved can be prosecuted for incest, which is a felony in the state and may carry severe penalties, including imprisonment and mandatory sex offender registration if sentenced to more than two years in prison.
Out-of-State Marriages: Recognized in Oklahoma
There is an important exception: If you legally marry your first cousin in a state where such marriages are permitted, Oklahoma will recognize the marriage as valid and binding, provided it was legal in the state where it was performed.
For example, if you marry your first cousin in California (where first cousin marriage is legal), Oklahoma law will honor that marriage.
Second Cousins and Other Relatives
- Second cousin marriages are legal in Oklahoma and not subject to these restrictions.
- Marriages between more distant relatives (beyond first cousins) are also generally permitted.
Summary Table
| Relationship | Marriage Legal in Oklahoma? | Criminal Offense? | Out-of-State Marriage Recognized? |
|---|---|---|---|
| First Cousin | No | Yes | Yes, if legal where performed |
| Second Cousin | Yes | No | Yes |
Key Takeaways
- First cousin marriage is illegal and considered incest in Oklahoma.
- Such marriages are void and can result in felony charges.
- If legally married as first cousins in another state, Oklahoma will recognize the marriage.
- Second cousin marriages are legal in Oklahoma.
If you are considering marrying a cousin in Oklahoma, it is crucial to understand these legal distinctions to avoid severe legal consequences.
Sources:
- https://law.justia.com/codes/oklahoma/title-43/section-43-2/
- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cousin_marriage_law_in_the_United_States
- https://www.theoklahomacityattorney.com/oklahoma-city-lawyer-blog/whos-ineligible-for-marriage-in-oklahoma-know-the-law/
- https://mylolowcountry.com/usa-laws/is-it-illegal-to-marry-your-cousin-in-oklahoma-heres-what-the-law-says/