In Florida, it is legal to marry your first cousin. The relevant law, Florida Statute §741.21, prohibits marriages between individuals related by lineal consanguinity, which includes direct relationships such as parent-child or sibling relationships. However, it does not include cousins, allowing first cousins to marry without legal repercussions.
Key Points:
- Marriage License: Couples intending to marry must apply for a marriage license from any court clerk in Florida. The application does not inquire about the couple’s familial relationship.
- Prohibited Relationships: While first cousins can marry, Florida law explicitly prohibits marriages between closer relatives, such as siblings, half-siblings, aunts/uncles, and nieces/nephews.
- Cousin Relationships: All types of cousins (including first and second cousins) are permitted to marry in Florida.
Marrying a first cousin is permissible in Florida, and couples should ensure they meet the state’s requirements for obtaining a marriage license.
Source
[1] https://isthatlegal.org/question-is-it-legal-to-marry-your-first-cousin/
[2] https://www.dataminingdna.com/can-first-cousins-marry-in-florida/
[3] https://www.rpfoley.com/incest-marrying-or-having-sex-with-a-blood-relative-florida-stat.html
[4] https://www.findlaw.com/legalblogs/law-and-life/is-it-legal-to-marry-your-cousin/
