In Wyoming, it is illegal to marry your first cousin. The state’s laws explicitly prohibit marriages between close relatives, including first cousins. According to Wyoming Statute § 20-2-101, marriages are considered void without any decree of divorce when the parties are closely related, which includes first cousins.
The legal framework for marriages in Wyoming is outlined in Title 20 of the Wyoming Statutes, specifically in Chapter 1 (Creation of Marriage) and Chapter 2 (Dissolution of Marriage)1. These statutes define the legal parameters for marriages within the state, including prohibited unions.
Prohibited Marriages
Wyoming law states that marriages are void when the parties stand in the relation to each other of:
- Parent and child
- Grandparent and grandchild
- Siblings (full or half-blood)
- Uncle and niece
- Aunt and nephew
- First cousins
This prohibition applies regardless of whether either party is illegitimate.
Consequences of Prohibited Marriages
Marriages that fall under these prohibited categories are considered void from the outset. This means they are not legally recognized and do not require a formal divorce or annulment to be dissolved. However, individuals who knowingly enter into such marriages may face legal consequences.
Comparison with Other States
While Wyoming prohibits first cousin marriages, laws on this matter vary across the United States. As of 2025, 24 states prohibit marriages between first cousins, 19 states allow them, and 7 states allow them under certain conditions.
For example:
- States like Alabama, Alaska, California, Colorado, and Florida allow first cousin marriages without restrictions.
- Some states, like Arizona, Illinois, Indiana, Utah, and Wisconsin, allow first cousin marriages under specific circumstances, such as when both parties are over a certain age or when one party is infertile.
- States neighboring Wyoming have different laws:
- Montana and South Dakota also prohibit first cousin marriages.
- Colorado allows first cousin marriages.
Other Considerations
While first cousin marriages are illegal in Wyoming, it’s important to note that:
- First cousins can legally cohabitate and have sexual relations in Wyoming.
- Marriages between first cousins once removed and cousins through adoption are permitted in the state.
- Wyoming does not recognize common-law marriages.
- Same-sex marriages are legal in Wyoming.
Wyoming maintains a strict prohibition on first cousin marriages, reflecting the state’s stance on consanguineous marriages and aligning with the majority of U.S. states that have similar restrictions in place.
SOURCES:-
[1] https://socalnestbox.com/is-it-illegal-to-marry-your-cousin-in-wyoming/
[2] https://annualreport.mediclinic.com/post/states-where-you-can-marry-your-first-cousin
[3] https://kisscasper.com/is-it-ok-to-marry-your-cousin-in-wyoming-state-kind-of-yeah/
[4] https://ground.news/article/is-it-illegal-to-marry-your-cousin-in-wyoming-heres-what-the-law-says_144797
