In Illinois, like in many other U.S. states, laws surrounding marriage are designed to protect individuals while setting clear boundaries on who can legally marry. A common question that often arises is whether marrying your cousin is legal in the state. If you’re considering such a union, it’s important to understand Illinois law and the implications that may come with it.
Is It Illegal to Marry Your Cousin in Illinois?
No, it is not illegal. In Illinois, first cousins are legally allowed to marry, and there is no requirement for special permission or exceptions. This makes Illinois one of the states where cousin marriage is permitted under civil law.
What Illinois Law Says About Cousin Marriages
First Cousins: Marriages between first cousins are allowed. Unlike some states that only permit cousin marriage under specific conditions—such as if both individuals are over a certain age or unable to reproduce—Illinois law does not impose such limitations.
Second Cousins and Beyond: The law is even less restrictive for second cousins and more distant relatives. These marriages are also legal without any conditions, as the level of relation is considered too distant to pose legal or health concerns under the law.
Health and Genetic Considerations
Although it’s legal to marry a cousin in Illinois, prospective couples should be aware of potential health implications. Children born to first-cousin couples may have a slightly higher risk of inheriting genetic disorders, due to the increased possibility of sharing similar recessive genes.
That said, the risk is generally considered low, and most children born from first cousin unions are healthy. Still, consulting with a genetic counselor can be a wise step for couples who want to better understand any potential risks before starting a family.
Marrying Other Close Relatives: What’s Not Allowed
While cousin marriages are permitted, Illinois law does draw a clear line with closer family relationships. The state strictly prohibits marriage between:
- Siblings (full or half)
- Parents and children
- Grandparents and grandchildren
- Aunts/uncles and nieces/nephews
These types of marriages are considered incestuous and are illegal in Illinois, both from a criminal and civil perspective. Violations of these laws can result in criminal charges and the nullification of the marriage.
Religious and Social Considerations
Even though Illinois law allows cousin marriage, some religious or cultural communities may not. In many traditions, cousin marriage may be discouraged or outright forbidden. For this reason, couples should also take into account their family’s values and community standards, as legal approval does not necessarily mean social acceptance.
Conclusion
In Illinois, marrying your cousin is legal, whether you’re first cousins, second cousins, or even more distantly related. There are no state laws that prohibit cousin marriage, and couples do not need any special exceptions or medical clearance to wed.
However, couples should consider both the health implications and cultural sensitivities before moving forward. For those concerned about possible genetic risks, speaking with a healthcare provider or genetic counselor can provide helpful guidance.
Understanding the full legal and personal picture can help ensure your marriage is not just lawful—but also thoughtful and well-informed.
