So You Wanna Marry Your First Cousin in Illinois? Hold Your Horses (Unless They're 50 or Sterile)
Ever looked at your childhood best friend/cousin and thought, "Hey, this marriage material?" Well, in Illinois, at least, your love story might hit a legal snag depending on your ages and family tree. Buckle up, because we're diving into the weird, wonderful, and sometimes wacky world of cousin marriage laws in the Prairie State.
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| Can First Cousins Marry In Illinois |
Don't Get Hitched Unless You Meet the Criteria (or Each Other's Parents Did)
Here's the gist: Generally, first-cousin marriage is a no-go in Illinois. But fear not, lovebirds! There are two exceptions to this rule:
- The Golden Age of Love: If you and your cousin are both over 50 years old, then congratulations, age becomes your aphrodisiac (and legal loophole)!
- The Sterility Shuffle: If one of you can provide a doctor's note stating permanent and irreversible sterility, then age ain't nothin' but a number (as long as you're both adults, of course).
Important Note: Don't try to fake that doctor's note. Not only is it illegal, but it throws a wrench into the whole "vows and true love" thing, doesn't it?
Why the Fuss About First Cousins Anyway?
Science! There's an increased chance of passing on certain genetic disorders when parents are closely related. But hey, that's for the geneticists to worry about, right?
Tip: Be mindful — one idea at a time.
This law is more of a leftover from the olden days when everyone knew everyone's family tree. Besides, Illinois wants to keep things interesting in the dating pool. Second cousins? Go nuts! (Although, some might argue that's a whole other can of worms...)
So, Can We Get Married Already?
Maybe! If you meet one of the exceptions above, then head on down to the courthouse and get hitched. Just be prepared to answer some curious questions from the clerk. ("So, uh, how'd you two meet?")
FAQ: Cousin-Couplet Conundrums
How to find out if you and your cousin are first cousins?
Tip: Reread key phrases to strengthen memory.
This might require a good old-fashioned family tree investigation. Talk to your folks, dust off those old photo albums, and get creative!
How do we get that doctor's note for sterility?
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Consult with a licensed physician who can assess the situation and provide the necessary paperwork (if applicable).
Tip: Pause if your attention drifts.
What happens if we get married somewhere else where it's legal?
This gets tricky. Illinois might not recognize the marriage if it violates their laws. Best to check with a lawyer specializing in family law.
Is there a special ceremony for cousin marriages?
Tip: Use this post as a starting point for exploration.
Nope! Though, if you do go this route, consider hiring a particularly witty officiant who can add some humor to the whole "not-so-distant-relatives" situation.
Should we tell our families?
That's entirely up to you! Just be prepared for some raised eyebrows and maybe a few awkward jokes at Thanksgiving dinner.
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