by North Carolina – Marriage laws in the United States often vary significantly from state to state, and North Carolina is no exception. One of the most commonly asked questions is whether marrying your cousin is legal in the state. The answer is yes—with one key exception. While first cousin marriages are allowed, North Carolina law specifically prohibits marriage between double first cousins, making the state’s rule unique compared to many others.
Who Counts as a First Cousin?
A first cousin is the child of your parent’s sibling. For example, your mother’s brother’s child would be your first cousin. Under North Carolina General Statutes §51-3, marriage between first cousins is permitted, provided the individuals are not more closely related.
This means that in North Carolina, marrying a first cousin is not considered incest or unlawful, as it might be in other states.
What Is a Double First Cousin?
The law does, however, make a unique distinction when it comes to double first cousins. This occurs when two siblings from one family marry two siblings from another family, and both couples have children. The children of these unions are related through both parents, effectively doubling their genetic connection.
For example, if two brothers marry two sisters, their children become double first cousins. In North Carolina, marriages between double first cousins are prohibited due to genetic risks associated with such close relations.
Legal Requirements for Marriage in North Carolina
To legally marry in North Carolina, couples must meet certain requirements, including:
- Both individuals must be at least 18 years old (with exceptions for certain minors under specific conditions).
- The couple cannot be more closely related than first cousins.
- Double first cousins are not allowed to marry.
- A marriage license must be obtained prior to the ceremony.
- Residency in North Carolina is not required to get married in the state.
More details on these requirements can be found on the North Carolina Judicial Branch website.
Why Does North Carolina Make This Distinction?
The prohibition on double first cousin marriages is primarily based on genetic concerns. Because double first cousins share more DNA than regular first cousins, there is a higher risk of inherited medical conditions in children born from such unions.
By prohibiting double first cousin marriages, North Carolina aims to balance genetic health concerns while still allowing first cousin marriages—something that is completely banned in many U.S. states.
How North Carolina Compares to Other States
Cousin marriage laws vary widely across the country:
- 24 states prohibit first cousin marriage entirely.
- 18 states, including North Carolina, permit it.
- 8 states allow it only under certain conditions, such as proof of infertility or if the individuals are above a certain age.
North Carolina’s specific restriction against double first cousin marriage is relatively rare, placing it among a handful of states that address this scenario directly. For a broader overview, see state-by-state marriage restrictions via the National Conference of State Legislatures.
Read Also: Can You Legally Marry Your Cousin in Mississippi? 2025 Law Explained
North Carolina Cousin Marriage Law at a Glance
| Relationship Type | Legal to Marry in NC? |
|---|---|
| First Cousin | Yes |
| Double First Cousin | No |
| Closer than First Cousin | No |
| Second Cousin | Yes |
Key Takeaways
- Marrying your first cousin is legal in North Carolina.
- Double first cousin marriages are prohibited due to higher genetic risks.
- A marriage license is required, but you do not need to be a resident of the state.
- North Carolina is among 18 states that allow first cousin marriages, setting it apart from the 24 states where it is banned.
If you’re considering marriage in North Carolina and want to understand how the state’s laws compare with others, it’s important to know the legal details and potential implications.
Do you think North Carolina’s cousin marriage laws strike the right balance between tradition and genetic safety? Share your thoughts in the comments at ibwhsmag.com.
