In New Hampshire, the legality of marriage between first cousins is explicitly addressed by state statutes.
Legal Framework
New Hampshire law prohibits marriages between individuals related by blood as first cousins or in any more direct lineage. This means that first cousins cannot legally marry within the state.
Cohabitation and Consensual Relationships
While marriage between first cousins is prohibited, New Hampshire law does not criminalize cohabitation or consensual sexual relations between first cousins. Therefore, first cousins are permitted to live together and engage in intimate relationships without legal repercussions.
Comparison with Other States
Marriage laws concerning first cousins vary across the United States. In New England, for instance, Massachusetts allows first cousins to marry, whereas New Hampshire prohibits such unions. Maine permits first-cousin marriages with certain restrictions, such as obtaining a certificate of genetic counseling.
Legal Implications
Entering into a marriage prohibited by New Hampshire law renders the union void from its inception, meaning it is legally nonexistent. Parties do not need to seek an annulment or divorce to dissolve it. However, knowingly entering into such a prohibited marriage can have legal consequences, including complications in areas like inheritance rights, legitimacy of children, and recognition of the union in other jurisdictions.
Historical Context
Historically, cousin marriages were more common and socially acceptable in many cultures, including parts of the United States. Over time, various states enacted laws either prohibiting or permitting marriages between first cousins based on genetic, cultural, or social considerations. New Hampshire’s current legal stance reflects a restrictive approach to first-cousin marriages.
Conclusion
In summary, New Hampshire law explicitly prohibits marriages between first cousins, rendering such unions void. However, the state does not criminalize cohabitation or consensual relationships between first cousins. As marriage laws vary significantly across states, individuals considering such a union should consult the specific statutes of the state in question and may benefit from legal counsel to fully understand the implications.