Cousin marriage laws in the United States vary considerably from one state to another, ranging from cousin marriages being legal in some to being a criminal offense in others. However, even in the states where it is legal, the practice is not widespread.

Is it okay to marry your cousin?

In the United States, second cousins are legally allowed to marry in every state. However, marriage between first cousins is legal in only about half of the American states. All in all, marrying your cousin or half-sibling will largely depend on the laws where you live and personal and/or cultural beliefs.

What would happen if you married your cousin?

They say there is no biological reason to discourage cousins from marrying. First cousins are somewhat more likely than unrelated parents to have a child with a serious birth defect, mental retardation or genetic disease, but their increased risk is nowhere near as large as most people think, the scientists said.

Can you go to jail if you date your cousin?

Penal Code 285 PC – California Incest Laws. Penal Code 285 PC is the California statute that makes incest a criminal offense. Under this section, marriage or sexual relations between close relatives is a felony and a conviction is punishable by up to 3 years in jail.