Surprising marriage laws around the world reveal a myriad of unique and unexpected regulations related to matrimony.
Unbeknownst to many, marriage is governed by many laws that vary significantly across different geographical regions. Some of these laws, while archaic or bizarre, are still technically in effect and can be a source of surprise.
Surprising Marriage Laws You Might Be Breaking Right Now
Here’s a fascinating journey exploring 15 staggering marriage laws that, despite their peculiarity, you might unknowingly be breaking right now. Stay tuned as we unravel these intriguing legal oddities.
Marrying on a Dare in Delaware
It’s illegal to get married on a dare in Delaware. Accidental weddings might need to be reconsidered!
Cousin Marriages in Utah
In Utah, unless both parties are over 65 or over 55 with a district court declaring either party unable to reproduce, cousin marriages are illegal.
Kissing in Public in Hartford, Connecticut
In Hartford, it’s illegal for a husband to kiss his wife on Sundays. In the 1600s, when the Puritans and Congregationalists reigned supreme, Sundays were not just a day of rest but a truly sacred occasion.
Living in Sin in Mississippi
Couples cannot live together in Mississippi before they’re married. It’s considered a misdemeanor punishable by a fine or six months in jail!
According to Justia Law, if any man and woman dare to cohabit, whether in adultery or fornic@tion unlawfully, they shall face a fine of up to five hundred dollars each and a possible imprisonment of no more than six months in the county jail. Interestingly, the parties are not required to dwell together to publicly be considered guilty of this offense.
Cheating Punishment in Michigan
Adultery is a felony in Michigan, punishable by a maximum of four years in prison. According to Iafrate and Salassa P.C., while opinions may differ on the matter, it’s fascinating to note that in Michigan, adultery is deemed a felony.
Surprising, right? Felonies in this state can land you in jail for at least one year. According to the statute, those who engage in adultery while married are legally committing a crime. Quite a thought-provoking topic, isn’t it?
Wedding Interruptions in Mississippi
If someone objects at a wedding in Mississippi and it turns out they didn’t have a good reason, they could face a $500 fine.
Mustache Kissing in Indiana
In Indiana, it’s illegal for men with mustaches to “habitually kiss human beings.” Believe it or not, this peculiar law stems from the classification of a mustache as facial hair.
Its purpose? To shield unsuspecting individuals from unwanted mustachioed kisses. Talk about quirky regulations!
Flirting in Little Rock, Arkansas
If a man flirts with a woman in Little Rock, he could be looking at a 30-day jail term.
Remarrying the Same Person in Kentucky
In Kentucky, you’re not allowed to remarry the same man more than three times. According to Colgan and Associates, a woman can’t remarry the same man four times in Kentucky.
Luckily, Taylor and Burton had the wisdom to call it quits just in time. Thank goodness they didn’t reside in the Bluegrass State!
Alcohol at Weddings in Nebraska
In Nebraska, the bride and groom cannot serve alcohol at their wedding reception.
No Mock Weddings in South Carolina
Mock weddings are illegal in South Carolina if you do not intend to live as a married couple.
Engagement Rings in South Carolina
If a South Carolina man promises to marry a woman, and she buys a wedding dress and all the trimmings, he’s obligated to follow through.
Marriage Age in New Hampshire
In New Hampshire, girls and boys as young as 16 can get married with parental consent and a judge’s approval.
According to FindLaw, children as young as 16 tie the knot in New Hampshire. But hold on, there’s a catch – they need parental consent, and a judge must be convinced that it’s truly in their best interests. Talk about a unique marriage law!
Banned Impersonators in Nevada
It’s illegal to get married by anyone impersonating any religious figure in Nevada.
Sorcery in Rhode Island
In Rhode Island, it’s illegal to lie to your spouse. Any person pretending to exercise or use witchcraft, sorcery, enchantment, or fortune-telling shall be deemed guilty of a misdemeanor.
20 Alabama Laws That Are So Bizarre You’ll Be Head-Shakingly Amused
Ladies and gents, brace yourselves for a wild ride through the labyrinth of the legal system of good ol’ Alabama. The Heart of Dixie, beloved for its southern charm and sweet tea, hides a quirky secret within its law books.
20 Alabama Laws That Are So Bizarre You’ll Be Head-Shakingly Amused
