West Virginia § 48-2-503 - 48-2-503. Consanguineous marriage; penalty.
Full text of West Virginia West Virginia Code § 48-2-503 — 48-2-503. Consanguineous marriage; penalty., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 48-2-503. 48-2-503. Consanguineous marriage; penalty.
(a) If a person marries another who is within the degrees of relationship described in section 2-302, and the relationship is founded on consanguinity, the person is guilty of a misdemeanor and, upon conviction thereof, shall be fined not more than $500, or be confined in the county or regional jail for not more than six months, or both, in the discretion of the court.
(b) If a person who is a resident of this state marries in another state or country, the person violates subsection (a) of this section if:
(1) The persons married are within the degrees of relationship described in section 2-302 and the relationship is founded on consanguinity;
(2) The person intends to evade the law of this state;
(3) The person intends to return and reside in this state; and
(4) The persons, after marrying, return to this state and cohabit as man and wife.
(c) For purposes of this section, the fact of cohabitation of the persons as man and wife is evidence of their marriage.
Source: official West Virginia text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About West Virginia § 48-2-503
What does West Virginia Code § 48-2-503 cover?
Section 48-2-503 ("48-2-503. Consanguineous marriage; penalty.") is part of the West Virginia Code, the codified statutory law of West Virginia. 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 West Virginia § 48-2-503?
A common citation format is "West Virginia Code § 48-2-503" (West Virginia). 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 West Virginia law?
No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the West Virginia official source linked on this page or consult a licensed West Virginia attorney.
How does West Virginia § 48-2-503 apply to my situation?
Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in West Virginia 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 West Virginia.