No, it is illegal to marry your first cousin in Nevada, as state law prohibits marriages between relatives closer than second cousins. This restriction stems from Nevada Revised Statutes (NRS) designed to prevent incest and potential genetic risks in offspring.
Nevada Marriage Requirements
Nevada allows marriage for those at least 18 years old, without a living spouse, and not nearer of kin than second cousins or half-blood cousins. NRS 122.020 explicitly states: “two persons… not nearer of kin than second cousins or cousins of the half blood, [may] be joined in marriage.” First cousins share grandparents, making them closer than second cousins (who share great-grandparents), so such unions are void.
Half-blood cousins—sharing one grandparent—are permitted, but full first cousins and closer relations like cousins once removed are banned. Marriages out-of-state won’t be recognized in Nevada if they violate these rules.
Incest Laws and Penalties
Under NRS 201.180, intermarriage or sexual relations (including fornication or adultery) between relatives within prohibited degrees of consanguinity constitute incest, a category A felony. Penalties include 2 years to life in prison and fines up to $10,000.
The law targets inbreeding risks, as cousin offspring face higher chances of genetic disorders. Even consensual cousin marriages count as criminal incest, regardless of procreation intent.
Historical and National Context
Nevada’s strict stance aligns with 25-30 U.S. states banning first-cousin marriage, per overviews of state laws. The prohibition dates back to early 20th-century statutes, unchanged in core form.
Some states allow cousin marriage with conditions like age or counseling; Nevada does not. Culturally taboo in the U.S., the practice persists elsewhere globally.
Exceptions and Practical Advice
Second cousins and beyond can marry freely after obtaining a license from any county clerk, proving age and relation distance via affidavits. No genetic testing is required.
Out-of-state cousin marriages remain void in Nevada courts for inheritance or divorce. Couples should consult attorneys for residency impacts. Violations risk felony charges upon discovery.
Health and Ethical Considerations
Genetic risks for first-cousin children include 3-4% higher chance of birth defects versus 2-3% general rate, due to shared recessive genes. States like Nevada prioritize public health via bans.
Ethically, while legal in places like California, Nevada enforces via criminal law to deter close-kin unions. For legal clarity, review NRS directly or seek counsel.
SOURCES:
- https://www.lvcriminaldefense.com/incest-and-child-brides-in-nevada/
- https://law.justia.com/codes/nevada/chapter-122/statute-122-020/
