In New Mexico, it is legal for first cousins to marry. The state’s marriage laws do not explicitly prohibit cousin marriages, and as a result, first cousins, as well as other more distant cousins, can legally wed without any restrictions. This includes half first cousins and first cousins once removed.
Legal Context
The relevant New Mexico statute (Section 40-1-7) outlines that marriages are prohibited only between closer relatives, such as siblings (both full and half-blood), parents and children, and between uncles and nieces or aunts and nephews.
Notably, the law was amended in 1880 to remove any prohibitions against cousin marriages, which means that first cousins are not classified among the incestuous relationships that are void under state law.
Marriage License Requirements
Couples wishing to marry must apply for a marriage license in person at a County Clerk’s office. While the clerk may inquire about the relationship between the parties, being first cousins does not impede the issuance of a marriage license.
Summary
In summary, marrying a first cousin in New Mexico is permitted under state law, provided that the couple complies with the standard marriage licensing requirements.
Sources:
- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cousin_marriage_law_in_the_United_States
- https://getordained.org/state-marriage-laws/new-mexico
- https://law.justia.com/codes/new-mexico/chapter-40/article-1/section-40-1-7/