In Wisconsin, marrying a cousin is not entirely prohibited but is subject to specific conditions. The state allows first cousins to marry under certain circumstances, reflecting a nuanced approach to cousin marriage laws compared to other states in the U.S.
This article will delve into the legal framework governing cousin marriages in Wisconsin, highlighting the restrictions and exceptions.
Legal Framework for Cousin Marriages in Wisconsin
Wisconsin law permits first cousins to marry, but only if certain conditions are met. These conditions are designed to address concerns about genetic risks associated with cousin marriages.
Conditions for First Cousin Marriage
- Age Requirement: The female must be at least 55 years old. This age requirement is intended to reduce the likelihood of the couple having children, thereby mitigating the risk of genetic disorders.
- Sterility Requirement: Alternatively, either party must provide a physician’s affidavit stating that they are permanently sterile. This ensures that the couple cannot reproduce, aligning with the state’s goal of preventing genetic risks.
Prohibitions for Closer Relatives
- Closer Than First Cousins: Marriages between individuals who are closer relatives than first cousins, such as siblings, half-siblings, or parents and children, are strictly prohibited in Wisconsin.
- First Cousins Once Removed: While first cousins once removed are considered second cousins and can marry without restrictions, first cousins once removed themselves are not explicitly addressed in this context but fall under the broader category of second cousins.
Comparison with Other States
Wisconsin’s approach to cousin marriage is more permissive than some states, which entirely ban first cousin marriages, but more restrictive than others that allow such marriages without conditions.
For example, states like Arizona and Utah have stricter regulations, while states like California and Florida allow first cousin marriages without age or sterility requirements.
Public Policy and Genetic Concerns
The primary concern behind these regulations is the increased risk of genetic disorders in offspring of first cousins. By requiring the female to be 55 or ensuring sterility, Wisconsin aims to prevent such risks while still allowing individuals to make personal choices about their relationships.
In Wisconsin, marrying a first cousin is legal under specific conditions, reflecting a balance between personal freedom and public health concerns. While the state allows these marriages with restrictions, it is essential to understand the legal and ethical implications of such unions.
The conditions set forth by Wisconsin law ensure that the genetic risks associated with cousin marriages are minimized.
Wisconsin’s cousin marriage laws highlight the complexities of balancing individual rights with societal concerns. By permitting first cousin marriages under certain conditions, the state acknowledges the importance of personal choice while safeguarding public health. This approach serves as a model for other states grappling with similar legal and ethical dilemmas.
SOURCES:-
[1] https://b105country.com/can-you-marry-your-first-cousin-in-wisconsin/
[2] https://www.ulc.org/wedding-laws/wisconsin
[3] https://myattorneyusa.com/immigration-blog/immigration-to-the-usa/marriage-invalid-if-it-goes-against-public-policy-of-state-of-residence-matter-of-zappia/
[4] https://www.burnettcountywi.gov/DocumentCenter/View/126/Information-about-marrying-in-Wisconsin?bidId=
[5] https://onmilwaukee.com/articles/marriagecousins
