Yes, cousin marriage is legal in Michigan under specific conditions. State statutes permit first-cousin unions, provided neither party is already married or closely related by blood beyond first cousins. Michigan’s probate courts handle marriage license issuance, with no additional familial consent required for cousins. Recent legislative reviews in 2025 confirmed compliance with constitutional standards, though local clerks may impose procedural scrutiny.
Key Regulations for Cousin Marriage in Michigan
- Statutory Authorization: MCL 551.2 permits first-cousin marriages, explicitly excluding closer relationships (e.g., siblings, half-siblings, or parent-child). The law aligns with Michigan’s Uniform Marriage and Divorce Act revisions from 2023.
- License Requirements: Applicants must present valid identification and pay a $20 fee at county clerk offices. No genetic testing or additional affidavits are mandated for cousins, though clerks may verify lineage through birth certificates.
- Prohibited Circumstances: Marriages between first cousins are void if either party is under 18 or already legally married. Michigan’s Department of Health and Human Services monitors compliance via vital records audits, with 2026 enforcement protocols targeting fraudulent filings.