Nancy P Marek

s it legal to marry your first cousin? In California, the answer is yes. Marrying a first cousin is legally permitted, not only in California but also in many other states. However, while it's allowed, that doesn’t necessarily mean it's always the best decision. There are several factors worth considering before pursuing such a marriage. California’s Legal Stance on Cousin Marriages Under California law, marrying your first cousin is entirely legal. This stems from the state’s recognition of marriage autonomy, even in situations that may be viewed as unconventional by other states. While some people might raise concerns about the genetics of cousin marriages, California emphasizes personal rights and cultural diversity over these objections. Why California Allows Cousin Marriages Cultural Acceptance: California prides itself on its rich cultural diversity. In various cultures around the globe, cousin marriages are common and accepted. By allowing these marriages, California res