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Am I considered a legitimate child if my parents are first cousins?

Am I considered a legitimate child if my parents are first cousins?

Q: Is the first-cousin inbreeding?

First-cousin relationships are not classified as inbreeding in legal terms. Inbreeding typically refers to relationships between closer relatives, such as siblings or parents and children. First cousins share a significant amount of genetic material, but they are legally allowed to marry in many states, including Oregon.

Q: Can you marry your first cousin in Oregon?

Yes, you can legally marry your first cousin in Oregon. There are no restrictions against such marriages under Oregon law, allowing first cousins to enter into a marital relationship without legal consequences.

Q: How much DNA do I share with my first cousin's child?

You typically share about 12.5% of your DNA with your first cousin's child. This is because you and your first cousin share approximately 50% of your DNA, and the child inherits half of that from your cousin, resulting in a 12.5% genetic relationship.

Q: Is first-cousin marriage legal in Oregon?

Yes, first-cousin marriage is legal in Oregon. The state does not have laws prohibiting marriages between first cousins, allowing them to marry without facing legal issues.

Q: What happens when a baby is born and the parents are not married?

When a baby is born to parents who are not married, the child is still considered legitimate in Oregon. However, the parents may need to establish paternity to ensure legal rights regarding custody, support, and inheritance. This can involve signing an acknowledgment of paternity or going through a court process.

Full question:

I live in Oregon. I am a child born within Wedlock. However, my parents are first cousins. Am I a legitimate child?

Category: Marriage
Date: 04/07/2025
State: Oregon

Answer:

In Oregon, even if your parents are first cousins, you are still considered a legitimate child. According to Oregon law, specifically ORS § 106.190, children born from marriages that are prohibited or void, such as those between close relatives, are recognized as legitimate. This means that despite the fact that your parents' marriage may be void under ORS § 106.020, you are legally recognized as their legitimate child.

This content is for informational purposes only and is not legal advice. Legal statutes mentioned reflect the law at the time the content was written and may no longer be current. Always verify the latest version of the law before relying on it.

FAQs

Is it OK to marry your 1st cousin?

In Oregon, it is legal for first cousins to marry. There are no laws prohibiting such marriages, so if both parties are of legal age and consent, they can proceed with the marriage. However, it is always advisable to consider the potential social and familial implications before making such a decision.