In Utah, marrying your first cousin is generally illegal, but there are two specific exceptions that make such a marriage possible under state law:
- Both parties are 65 or older: First cousins can legally marry if both individuals are at least 65 years old.
- Both parties are at least 55 and infertile: First cousins can also marry if both are at least 55 years old and a court finds that either party is unable to reproduce, typically requiring medical proof of infertility.
Outside of these exceptions, first cousin marriages are prohibited and considered void in Utah.
Other Close Relatives
Utah law also bans marriage between individuals more closely related than first cousins, such as siblings, parents and children, aunts/uncles and nieces/nephews.
Legal Consequences
- Criminal Penalties: Marrying a first cousin outside the allowed exceptions is not just void, but can also be prosecuted as a criminal offense in Utah.
- Recognition of Out-of-State Marriages: Utah does not recognize first cousin marriages performed elsewhere if the couple does not meet Utah’s age or infertility requirements.
Summary Table: First Cousin Marriage in Utah
| Situation | Legal in Utah? |
|---|---|
| Both first cousins 65 or older | Yes |
| Both first cousins at least 55 and infertile | Yes (with proof) |
| Both under 55, or 55+ and fertile | No |
| Closer relatives (siblings, parent/child, etc.) | No |
| Out-of-state first cousin marriage (Utah residents) | No |
Marrying your first cousin in Utah is only legal if both are at least 65, or both are at least 55 and one is proven infertile. In all other cases, such a marriage is prohibited and may carry criminal penalties. Utah does not recognize first cousin marriages performed elsewhere unless the couple meets these exceptions.
Sources:
- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cousin_marriage_law_in_the_United_States
- https://www.yahoo.com/news/first-cousins-legally-married-utah-040148370.html
- https://www.cbsnews.com/news/first-cousins-in-love-with-each-other-petition-to-get-legally-married-in-utah/
- https://cardozolawreview.com/the-unconstitutionality-of-state-bans-on-marriage-between-first-cousins/