In Nevada, it is illegal to marry your cousin, as such marriages are considered incest under state law. Nevada Revised Statute (NRS) § 201.180 explicitly prohibits marriage between individuals who are closer in relation than second cousins or cousins of half-blood. This means that first cousins, second cousins, and cousins once removed cannot legally marry in the state.
Legal Framework
Under NRS § 201.180, incest is defined as marriage or sexual relations between relatives within prohibited degrees of consanguinity. The law applies even if both parties consent to the marriage or relationship. Marriage between cousins is classified as a criminal act of incest in Nevada, carrying severe penalties.
Conviction for incest can result in imprisonment ranging from two years to life with the possibility of parole, along with fines up to $10,000.
Additionally, Nevada law declares any marriage between prohibited relatives legally void. Even if such a marriage is performed in a state where cousin marriage is legal, Nevada does not recognize it.
Rationale Behind the Law
The prohibition on cousin marriage in Nevada is rooted in concerns about genetic risks associated with inbreeding. Offspring of closely related individuals may face a higher likelihood of genetic disorders, which has led many states, including Nevada, to outlaw such unions. This reflects broader societal norms and public health considerations aimed at discouraging close-relative marriages.
Comparison to Other States
The legal status of cousin marriage varies across the United States. While some states allow it under specific conditions (e.g., age or infertility), others, like Nevada, criminalize it outright. In total, eight states classify first cousin marriage as a criminal offense, including Nevada. Kentucky and Nevada are unique in also prohibiting marriages between second cousins.
Penalties for Violations
Marrying a cousin in Nevada can lead to felony charges with severe consequences:
- Imprisonment: A minimum of two years and up to life.
- Fines: Up to $10,000.
- Additional Consequences: Convicted individuals may face lifetime supervision under sex offender registration laws.
Nevada law unequivocally prohibits cousin marriages and treats them as serious criminal offenses under its incest statutes. The penalties are severe and reflect the state’s stance against such unions due to genetic concerns and societal norms.
If you are considering marriage with a relative in Nevada or have questions about prohibited relationships under the law, consulting a legal expert is strongly advised to avoid significant legal repercussions.
SOURCES:-
[1] https://courtroomproven.com/blog/is-it-legal-to-marry-your-cousin-in-nevada/
[2] https://www.shouselaw.com/nv/defense/nrs/201-180-incest/
[3] https://law.justia.com/codes/nevada/chapter-201/statute-201-180/
[4] https://www.lvcriminaldefense.com/incest-and-child-brides-in-nevada/
[5] https://www.lvnvlawfirm.com/nevada-crimes-by-name/incest-nrs-201-180/
