So, You Wanna Marry Your Childhood Sweetheart...But They're Also Your Cousin? A Guide to Michigan Matrimony (Maybe)
Let's face it, Michigan winters can be a lonely time. You huddle up with your favorite blanket, rewatch The Mitten for the 87th time, and start reminiscing about all those fun times with your childhood best friend...who also happens to be your first cousin. But wait! Before you get all googly-eyed and dust off your matching mittens (because that's adorable), there's a burning question: Can first cousins even get hitched in the Great Lakes State?
Buckle Up, Buttercup, Because the Law Says...Not Exactly.
Here's the deal: marrying your first cousin is a big ol' no-no in Michigan. Section 551.3 of the Michigan Compiled Laws throws a wrench into your cousinly coupledom dreams. They list out a whole bunch of folks you can't marry (your mailman is safe, though), and first cousins are on that list. So, unless you're planning a rogue elopement to Canada (which, don't get any ideas!), looks like you'll need to find love elsewhere.
But Wait! There's a Twist (Maybe)!
Now, hold on a sec. Michigan law can be trickier than a mitten stuck to a frozen flagpole. There was this one court case way back in 1973 where a couple who were first cousins got married in Hungary (where it is legal). A Michigan court said their marriage might actually be valid here. But this is a legal loophole smaller than a Petoskey stone, and it's not guaranteed to work.
The Bottom Line: Don't Risk the Mitten-Sized Mittens of the Law
Look, we all love a good rom-com with a quirky twist, but when it comes to marriage, it's best to play it safe. There are plenty of fish (or should we say, walleye?) in the sea (or, well, the Great Lakes). Save yourself the potential headache (and maybe a visit to a lawyer) and stick to dating outside the family tree.
FAQ: Cousinly Conundrums Conquered (Hopefully)
How to know if someone is your first cousin? Easy! Your parents and their parents (your aunts and uncles) are siblings. Their child is your first cousin.
How to find love outside the family? There are dating apps, friend setups, or maybe even that cute barista at your favorite coffee shop (just don't be creepy about it).
How to deal with a broken heart? Ice cream and rom-coms (but this time, with characters who are definitely not related).
How to get good legal advice? Consult with a lawyer who specializes in family law. They'll know the legalese better than anyone.
How to move on from your first cousin crush? Focus on the awesome things about Michigan: Mackinac Island fudge, Sleeping Bear Dunes, and the fact that you won't accidentally break the law by getting married.
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