Ohio § 3101.01
Full text of Ohio Ohio Revised Code § 3101.01, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 3101.01.
(A) Except as provided in section 3101.02 of the Revised Code , only male persons of the age of eighteen years, and only female persons of the age
of eighteen years, not nearer of kin than second cousins, and not having a husband
or wife living, may be joined in marriage. A marriage may only be entered into by one man and one woman. (B)(1) Any marriage between persons of the same sex is against the strong public policy
of this state. Any marriage between persons of the same sex shall have no legal force or effect
in this state and, if attempted to be entered into in this state, is void ab initio
and shall not be recognized by this state. (2) Any marriage entered into by persons of the same sex in any other jurisdiction shall
be considered and treated in all respects as having no legal force or effect in this
state and shall not be recognized by this state. (3) The recognition or extension by the state of the specific statutory benefits of a
legal marriage to nonmarital relationships between persons of the same sex or different
sexes is against the strong public policy of this state. Any public act, record, or judicial proceeding of this state, as defined in section 9.82 of the Revised Code , that extends the specific statutory benefits of legal marriage to nonmarital relationships
between persons of the same sex or different sexes is void ab initio. Nothing in division (B)(3) of this section shall be construed to do either of the
following: (a) Prohibit the extension of specific benefits otherwise enjoyed by all persons, married
or unmarried, to nonmarital relationships between persons of the same sex or different
sexes, including the extension of benefits conferred by any statute that is not expressly
limited to married persons, which includes but is not limited to benefits available
under Chapter 4117. of the Revised Code; (b) Affect the validity of private agreements that are otherwise valid under the laws
of this state. (4) Any public act, record, or judicial proceeding of any other state, country, or other
jurisdiction outside this state that extends the specific benefits of legal marriage
to nonmarital relationships between persons of the same sex or different sexes shall
be considered and treated in all respects as having no legal force or effect in this
state and shall not be recognized by this state.
Frequently Asked Questions About Ohio § 3101.01
What does Ohio Revised Code § 3101.01 cover?
Section 3101.01 is part of the Ohio Revised Code, the codified statutory law of Ohio. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.
How do I cite Ohio § 3101.01?
A common citation format is "Ohio Revised Code § 3101.01" (Ohio). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.
Is this the official text of Ohio law?
No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Ohio official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Ohio attorney.
How does Ohio § 3101.01 apply to my situation?
Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Ohio can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.
Sources & Verification
Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in Ohio.