New York parent seeks OK to marry their own adult child

Apr 10, 2021

New York parent seeks OK to marry their own adult child
A New Yorker who wants to marry their own adult offspring is suing to overturn laws barring the incestuous practice, calling it a matter of "individual autonomy."

The pining parent seeks to remain anonymous because their request is "an action that a large segment of society views as morally, socially and biologically repugnant," according to court papers.

"Through the enduring bond of marriage, two persons, whatever relationship they might otherwise have with one another, can find a greater level of expression, intimacy and spirituality," the parent argues in the Manhattan federal court claim filed April 1.
Legal papers give only the barest picture of the would-be newlyweds, failing to identify their gender, ages, hometowns or the nature of their relationship.

"The proposed spouses are adults," the filing says. "The proposed spouses are biological parent and child. The proposed spouses are unable to procreate together."

Incest is a third-degree felony under New York law, punishable by up to four years behind bars, and incestuous marriages are considered void, with the spouses facing a fine and up to six months in jail.

Marriage licenses in the five boroughs require potential spouses to list their birth parents and attest there are "no legal impediments to the marriage," according to the City Clerk’s Office

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New York parent seeks OK to marry their own adult child
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