What states is polygamy legal Utah has the most polygamous relationships in the nation, clocking in at about 30,000 people believing that plural marriage brings exaltation in heaven – a legacy of the early Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Nearly 160 years later, the law hasn't changed. S Constitution and its relationship with the institution of marriage has always been fraught with tension. When a woman has multiple husbands, it’s known as polyandry. Jan 9, 2016 · In response to Utah’s appeal, the Sister Wives argued in court that the recently enacted same-sex marriage laws are applicable to polygamy. Feb 6, 2023 · The concept of polygamy has been a controversial topic for a long time, and it is still illegal in many countries, including the United States. Get informed today. This comprehensive analysis delves into the cultural, religious, and legal aspects of polygamy, offering valuable insights into this complex practice. Learn about polygamy legality, bigamy, and plural marriage laws in the US, including historical context and modern implications for polygamous families and marriage rights. Traditionally, polygamy has been practiced in many cultures throughout the world, although by the twenty Edmunds Anti-Polygamy Act of 1882 The Edmunds Anti-Polygamy Act of 1882 is a U. in the late 19th century, though some fundamentalist Mormon sects still practice plural marriage illegally. While technically illegal nationwide, the enforcement of anti-polygamy laws is far from uniform, creating a complex and often confusing legal Explore the legal status of polygamy in California, including state laws, penalties, and when to consult legal counsel. Feb 22, 2020 · Polygamy has historically taken two forms, polyandry and polygyny. Jul 7, 2022 · The law allows a single legal union with one of the wives. The term polygamy (literally many marriages in late Greek) is used in related ways in social anthropology and sociobiology. FAUCON* Polygamist families in America live as outlaws on the margins of society. In addition, a few plural marriages were performed in the United States. Apr 10, 2024 · Polygamy, the practice of having multiple spouses simultaneously, is uniformly illegal across all states in the United States. In 2013, a federal judge’s ruling struck down some parts of Utah bigamy law that prohibit cohabitation of polygamous couples but maintained the law against having multiple marriage licenses. The Court held that while Congress could not outlaw a belief in the correctness of polygamy, it could outlaw the practice thereof. The law allows a single legal union with one of the wives. But has it made a difference? FOX 13 News political reporter Ben Winslow takes a 360-degree look. Despite its illegality, instances of bigamy still occur, often due to misunderstandings of divorce proceedings or deliberate deception. If polygamy were to become the law of the land, states could no longer prohibit bigamy. So, the bottom line is that, currently, polygamy is not technically legal in any of the 50 states. Throughout history, polygamous relationships have taken different forms, with polygyny Jun 26, 2023 · Bigamy, also known as polygamy, is illegal in Utah. The Brown family belongs to the Apostolic United Brethren faith. In those countries that accept or encourage polygamy, polygyny is most common. In this blog post, we will explore the legality of polygamy and discuss some of the pros and cons of this type of marriage. Jul 23, 2020 · This post looks at recent legal changes protecting people in CNM relationships, including the Sommerville, MA city council recognition of CNM domestic partnerships. Brant explores the legal challenges of polyamorous and plural families, including child custody, tax filing, government benefits, and housing rights, and the methods these families use to build a life outside of legal marriage. United States (1879), the Supreme Court ruled unanimously that a federal law prohibiting polygamy did not violate the free exercise clause of the First Amendment. Polygamy was outlawed in federal territories by the 1882 Edmunds Act, and there are laws against the practice in all 50 states, as well as the District of Columbia, Guam, [1] and Puerto Rico. Federal and state laws unequivocally prohibit polygamy, and practicing it can lead to severe legal repercussions. will not recognize the second marriage as legally valid. Polygamy was outlawed in federal territories by the 1882 Edmunds Act, and there are laws against the practice in all 50 states, as well as the District of Columbia, Guam, [1] and Puerto Rico. 58 of the nearly 200 independent states, the vast majority of which have a Muslim majority, have legalized polygamy. This approach stems from a combination of factors, including law enforcement This practice pointer offers practitioners guidance on navigating various scenarios that arise when representing a client in a polygamous marriage and attempts to address the many ambiguities and confusion surrounding the definition and practice of polygamy. However, the legal implications of polygamy can be complex, and individuals who engage in it may Jun 22, 2023 · In the United States, polygamy – being married to more than one spouse at the same time – is illegal in all 50 states. Like monogamy, the term is often used in a de facto sense, applying regardless of whether the Polygamy remains one of the most controversial and misunderstood relationship structures in modern society. However, strict legal consequences serve as a deterrent in most cases. We investigate why it is rarely prosecuted in the United States. polygamy laws, federal and state restrictions, enforcement challenges, constitutional debates, and immigration consequences. Oct 18, 2022 · What is the point of polygamy and polyamory? Where are they legal? What does the Bible and other religions say about them? What are Israel's laws? Here's what you should know. The reasons for the illegality of polygamy in the United States are rooted in the country’s legal history and cultural values. 2016), is a legal case in the United States federal courts challenging the State of Utah 's criminal polygamy law. Mormon plural families openly practiced polygamy in Mexico; the Canadian government allowed Mormon men to have only one wife in the country, so some men had a legal wife in the United States and one in Canada. Jul 13, 2024 · Conclusion The debate surrounding the criminalization of polygamy and polyamory is complex and multifaceted, touching upon legal, social, and ethical dimensions. Both These states are commonly referred to as “Plural Marriage States” and include Utah, Idaho, Arizona, Colorado, Wyoming, New Mexico and Oregon. The practice is generally prohibited by state laws and can lead to criminal charges such as bigamy or cohabitation with multiple partners. [1] However, 12 out of the 36 Nigerian states recognize polygamous marriages as being equivalent to monogamous marriages. ” Finally, the Court held Feb 27, 2025 · No, polygamy is illegal in Washington state. There are several religious reasons that allow this, although legal marriage in some countries is illegal. Dec 7, 2020 · Polygamy is rare throughout most of the world. You'll also find out about the practical implications for individuals and families who Apr 25, 2024 · Is polyamory legal in France? Europe. [2] Because state laws exist, polygamy is not actively prosecuted at the federal level. 590, 55 So. Supreme Court’s same-sex marriage decision in Obergefell v. Sep 12, 2023 · Explore the countries where polygamy is legal in 2024. 14-4117 (10th Cir. [3] Many US courts (e. This means that a person cannot be legally married to more than one person at the same time within the U. Jul 19, 2024 · The legal status of polygamy varies widely around the world, with 58 out of nearly 200 sovereign states being Muslim-majority countries. Communication is the foundation of any successful relationship, and polyamorous relationships are no exception. Polygamy is a crime and punishable by a fine, imprisonment, or both, according to the law of the individual state and the circumstances of the offense. To be even Oct 22, 2024 · Legal Status of Bigamy and Polygamy in the United States Bigamy and polygamy are illegal in all 50 states. Feb 17, 2023 · Are Throuple Marriages Legal in New York? Polygamy (marrying more than one person) is currently illegal in all 50 states. Jul 13, 2025 · This article aims to clear up some of the confusion surrounding states that allow polygamy, providing factual information and context. In most of these states, Polygyny is allowed and legally sanctioned. Aug 15, 2025 · What should you know about polygamy? Read about different forms of polygamy—polyandry, polygyny (former Church of Jesus Christ of LDS marriage practice), etc. This approach stems from a combination of factors, including law enforcement Polygamy in Nigeria The 12 Muslim majority states in Nigeria's north where polygamy is legal. Legality of polygamy in the United States explained Polygamy was outlawed in federal territories by the 1882 Edmunds Act, and there are laws against the practice in all 50 states, as well as the District of Columbia, Guam, [1] and Puerto Rico. Jun 28, 2023 · Polygamy in the United States Polygamy is a practice that involves having more than one spouse at a time. Polygamy, the practice of having more than one spouse simultaneously, raises legal questions and concerns in various jurisdictions. The Court upheld Reynolds's conviction and Congress’s power to prohibit polygamy. This prohibition is the result of a combination of historical conflicts, foundational legal precedents, and enduring government interests. Feb 18, 2025 · Understand Nevada’s legal stance on polygamy, including distinctions from bigamy, potential penalties, and the civil implications of multiple unions. Jul 21, 2025 · Utah’s polygamy laws have evolved, shifting focus from the practice itself to protecting vulnerable individuals from coercion, fraud, and abuse. [21] Jun 22, 2023 · Enforcement of Polygamy Laws In the state of Utah, the practice of polygamy is technically illegal, although the enforcement of polygamy laws is limited. I also ask questions but that’s my way to express what I believe. 5 days ago · Contrary to some beliefs, polygamy is not legal in any state in the United States. Whether based on cultural tradition, religious beliefs, or curiosity, understanding how California handles multiple Apr 10, 2022 · Two years ago, a bill was signed into law effectively decriminalizing polygamy in Utah. Jul 19, 2024 · Polygamy is not eligible for legal marriage in most places due to bigamy laws, but other polygamous arrangements are often ignored in quite a few cases. g. May 11, 2024 · Polygamy was outlawed in federal territories by the Edmunds Act, and there are laws against the practice in all 50 states, as well as the District of Columbia, Guam, and Puerto Rico. When a man has multiple wives, it’s called polygyny. The only legal form of polygamy in the U. In countries that ban polygamy, the offense is commonly called bigamy, though. federal law that made polygamy a felony in federal territories. S. This implies that you run the risk of serving time in jail (up to 5) and being subjected to steep fines (up to $5,000). Plural Marriage: Overview Introduction Polygamy, referred to as plural marriage in some religious groups, is the practice of being married to more than one person simultaneously. . Financial and legal planning is essential to navigate the constraints imposed by anti-polygamy laws. Entering into a marriage while still being legally married to another person is considered bigamy, a criminal offense in Florida, punishable by law with fines • Discover the legal status of polygamy in the United States in this captivating video. Grossman and Stanford law professor Lawrence M. Score: 5/5 (60 votes) Polygamy is the practice of having more than one spouse at the same time. I’m using US laws, constitution, culture, religions, beliefs, history, etc, to come to my reasons and conclusions. is polygyny, where May 18, 2023 · In the U. The legal status of polygamy varies from country to country, with each nation outlawing, accepting, or encouraging polygamy. Bigamy, the act of marrying one person while still legally married to another, is illegal across all states in the United States. As a result, polygamous marriages are not legally recognized, and bigamy remains illegal across the country. CASEY E. In the U. Polygamous marriages performed abroad may be Polygamy in Nigeria The 12 Muslim majority states in Nigeria's north where polygamy is legal. The action was filed in 2011 by polygamist Kody Brown along with his wives Meri Brown, Janelle Brown, Christine Brown, and Robyn Sullivan. Sep 28, 2024 · In 1948, the Supreme Court remanded a case back to Utah state court to determine whether its law prohibited mere advocacy of polygamy. May 1, 2024 · The legal status of polygamy varies widely around the world, with polygyny being legal in 58 out of nearly 200 sovereign states, the vast majority of them being Muslim-majority countries. Polygamy is legal in 58 out of nearly 200 sovereign states, the vast majority of them being Muslim-majority countries. This legal stance is rooted in historical efforts to regulate family structures and maintain societal norms. The practice of polygamy and polyandry is legal in every state in the US. The Act barred individuals practicing polygamy or unlawful cohabitation from voting, holding public office, or serving on juries. In Finland, the official prosecutor must take cases where more than two people are married to each other to court. Feb 24, 2024 · A: In the United States, polygamy is illegal under federal law and the laws of all 50 states. legal system is based on British common law, which recognized only monogamous marriages. We'll explore the distinctions between different forms of plural unions, discuss the historical background, and explain the current legal situation in the United States. Oct 20, 2024 · Explore the complex legal landscape of polygamy, examining its global status, penalties, and implications in family law and immigration. If you have questions about bigamy, polygamy, or other types of family law issues, contact the O’Mara Law Group today. Apr 19, 2024 · Polygamy, the practice of having multiple spouses simultaneously, is illegal in all 50 states in the United States. Sep 9, 2022 · Polygamy is a term that is used to describe when a person has more than one spouse. Buhman, No. When a man and his family from an area of Africa where polygamy is legal seek to become citizens of Canada what is the legal status of the wives? Oct 6, 2024 · Discover Polygamy Laws and understand your rights, exploring legal aspects, marital status, and family dynamics, amidst complex plural marriage regulations and societal implications. , polygamy is illegal under both federal and state laws. The practice of having multiple spouses at the same time is generally not recognized or legally sanctioned in Jul 13, 2024 · Polygamy, the practice of having multiple spouses simultaneously, is uniformly illegal across all states in the United States, including Utah, Idaho, Arizona, Colorado, Wyoming, New Mexico, and Oregon. People who attempt to, or are able to, secure a second marriage license are generally prosecuted for bigamy. In the United States, polygamy was declared unlawful through the passing of Edmunds Anti-Polygamy Act of 1882. Polygamy is illegal in all 27 states. Explore the legal definition of polygamy, its historical context, and the implications of this practice in modern society. This article will delve into why is polygamy illegal and some laws regarding the concept. Turner v. Join us as we delve into the historical context, the legal framework, and the Supreme Court ruling Sep 9, 2022 · Polygamy, bigamy, and multiple marriages are all relationships in which a person has more than one spouse. Polygamy as a crime originated in the common law , and it is now outlawed in every state. In most jurisdictions, bigamy is a criminal offense, and it can also have civil consequences, particularly when it comes to property, inheritance, and marriage validity. Having multiple spouses can raise legal, ethical, and emotional questions around marriage. May 27, 2023 · Polygamy’s legal standing varies significantly from country to country. Although the most recent area of intersection is the landmark case, Obergefell v. Nov 28, 2023 · The question of "Is polygamy legal?" is one that often sparks curiosity and prompts a deeper exploration into the legal frameworks surrounding plural marriages. , 212 Miss. Jul 15, 2024 · Polygamy and bigamy are illegal in every state of the United States, despite the fact that tens of thousands of people in North America are involved in multiple marriages. Jul 7, 2025 · Polygamy, the practice of having more than one spouse, is illegal in all 50 states. Polygamy raises issues under the free exercise clause of the First Amendment. Learn how it compares with monogamy and other relationship styles across time. This guide focuses on polygamy legal, which addresses issues such as marriage recognition, spousal rights, and the legal complexities of maintaining multiple legally bound relationships. While it is illegal in all 50 states, there are still some communities that practice it, often citing religious beliefs and personal freedom as reasons to do so. Mar 15, 2021 · Andrew Solomon writes about his encounters with polyamorists and fundamentalist Mormon polygamists, whose parallel campaigns are challenging the idea that there can’t be more than two people in Mar 27, 2024 · Polygamy Is Outlawed in Every State, So How Is ‘Sister Wives’ Legal? By the time 'Sister Wives' premiered in 2010, police in Lehi, Utah, had been investigating the Brown family for weeks. The terms "bigamy" and "polygamy" are sometimes confused or used interchangeably. Polygamy among Latter Brown v. [3] The legal status of polygamy varies widely around the world. Out of almost 200 sovereign states, 58 have laws permitting polygyny; the vast majority of these nations have a majority of Muslims. 2d Mar 25, 2023 · The future status of polygamy in Utah and other states remains to be seen. While the insular groups living in and around Utah are recognized by mainstream society, Muslim polygamists (including African‐American polygamists) living primarily along the East Coast are much less familiar. Apr 1, 2011 · The issues surrounding the legality of polygamy are much more complex than recent television shows that make polygamy appear attractive, particularly in terms of women's and children's rights. [20] Polygamy was outlawed in federal territories by the Edmunds Act, and there are laws against the practice in all 50 states, as well as the District of Columbia, Guam, [21] and Puerto Rico. Jan 1, 2009 · Polygamy is a practice in which a person is married to more than one person at the same time. Sep 10, 2018 · There are two basic types of polygamy. Polygamy was outlawed in the U. For decades, bigamy was a third-degree felony Polygamy marriages should be legal in the United States and the US government should allow polygamy marriages to be done legally. Albania, Armenia, Andorra, Azerbaijan, Belarus, Bosnia and Herzegovina, EU. The legal status of polygamy varies widely around the world. In Murphy v. [2] Polygamy, the practice of having multiple spouses simultaneously, is uniformly illegal across all states in the United States. Polygamy is legal in the United States of America and there are a number of reasons why you might choose to marry more than one person. If you’re wondering, “Is polygamy legal in California?” the answer depends on this legal definition of marriage and the penalties for violating these rules. Mar 15, 2025 · The Shifting Sands of Sister Wives: Where Polygamy Stands in the US The image of a family with multiple wives, often conjured up by the popular TV show “Sister Wives,” presents a stark contrast to the legal reality of polygamy in the United States. Mar 14, 2025 · The legal action taken by Nichols is one in a series of lawsuits against the Kingston family, including, most recently, allegations filed in 2022 by 10 former members of the Kingston group also alleging sexual abuse and exploitation. Polygamy is illegal in Bulgaria and punishable by up to three years in prison. Utah Polygamy Laws Today The aftermath of the legal issues the Sister Wives faced in Utah led to changes in its anti-polygamy statute, increasing the penalty from 5 to 10 years in prison. Despite the positive social justifications that support polygamous marriage recognition, the Mar 30, 2024 · Polygamy, the practice of having multiple spouses simultaneously, is uniformly illegal across all states in the United States. The U. Sep 14, 2025 · The legality of polygamy in the United States is a complex topic. “It is a problem within polygamy in the state of Utah,” Cooper said. Is polygamy legal in Texas? Bryan Fagan Law Office explains the laws, penalties, and implications of polygamous relationships in 2025. Apr 17, 2025 · Polygamy raises legal and social questions that often lead people to explore how the state defines legal marriages. Oct 3, 2025 · Polygamy is uniformly illegal across all 50 states in the United States, rooted in historical efforts to regulate family structures and maintain societal norms. S. While polygamy has a long history of legal prohibition in many Western societies, polyamory remains a relatively new concept in legal discourse. Oct 7, 2024 · Polygamy is legal in 58 out of nearly 200 sovereign states, the vast majority of them being Muslim-majority countries situated in Africa and Asia. Polygamy is rare in the US, but practiced in different cultures. The practice of having multiple spouses at the same time is generally not recognized or legally sanctioned in polygamy Polygamy is the practice of having more than one spouse at the same time. Despite the polygamy ban, such marriages often exist through a legal loophole. polygamy Polygamy is the practice of having more than one spouse at the same time. While some states, including New York, have begun offering protections for polyamorous relationships, more than two people cannot yet enter a legal marriage. This holds true even if the marriage is legally conducted The Article concludes that the state has a compelling economic interest in limiting marriage to two people. are rarely prosecuted for living with multiple romantic partners, but every state has laws against getting May 13, 2025 · Bigamy laws refer to the legal prohibition against being married to more than one person at the same time. Polygamy is understood today to mean many marriages or unions entered into at the same time (for instance, one man having several wives); bigamy is smaller in scale, involving one person married simultaneously to two others. Polygyny is only permitted among the Muslim population in a number of non-Muslim nations in Sub-Saharan Africa and Asia Apr 21, 2023 · Polygamy is the practice of marrying multiple spouses, which is illegal in all fifty states and United States territories. This type of marriage is not recognized by the law in most countries, but there are some exceptions. See the Utah state penalties for polygamy detailed in the section Utah Bigamy Penalty, below. In social anthropology, polygamy is the practice of marriage to more than one spouse simultaneously (as opposed to monogamy where each person has only one spouse at a time). [22] Because state laws exist, polygamy is not Nov 7, 2022 · Both polygamy and bigamy are illegal in every state, in spite of the fact that tens of thousands of people in North America are involved in multiple marriages. All twelve states are governed by Sharia law. Hodges (2015), discourse on marriage in constitutional history extends beyond the scope of same-sex marriage. Some countries that permit polygamy have restrictions, such as requiring the first wife to give her consent. Aug 2, 2022 · Polygamy is illegal in most of the world, but it is practiced by about 2 percent of its population. Wondering if polygamy is legal in California? Get clear answers on state laws, potential penalties, and how polygamous relationships are treated under the law. Learn more about polygamy now. There are no states where you can legally marry multiple spouses. Polygamy as a crime originated in the common law, and it is now outlawed in every state. Grossman and Friedman provide a short history of bigamy and polygamy laws in the United States and explain how and why the laws are evolving. are rarely prosecuted for living with multiple romantic partners, but every state has laws against getting In what states is polygamy legal? Polygamy was outlawed in federal territories by the Edmunds Act, and there are laws against the practice in all 50 states, as well as the District of Columbia, Guam, and Puerto Rico. Almost every nation has laws against polygyny, but Islam does not forbid it. The Polygamy Amendments by IMAAN MIRZA The U. The Supreme Court has ruled that polygamy isn’t protected under the Constitution. ⚖️ What Is Bigamy? Bigamy occurs when a person: Knowingly marries… In what states is polygamy legal? Polygamy was outlawed in federal territories by the Edmunds Act, and there are laws against the practice in all 50 states, as well as the District of Columbia, Guam, and Puerto Rico. Isn’t polygamy illegal in the United States? Feb 10, 2020 · Now, a state lawmaker says it’s time to remove the threat of jail time for otherwise law-abiding polygamists. Nov 27, 2024 · Polygamy laws in America vary, but federal law prohibits it. In the state, polygamy is regarded as a third-degree felony. Hodges—to state anti-polygamy laws. But if that’s the case, how can the Brown family live the way they do? Administrative and Government Law Business and Financial Law Civil Rights Law Consumer Law Criminal Law Education Law Employment Law May 30, 2023 · The legal status of polygamy varies greatly from country to country. While polygamy is legal in some countries, it is illegal in the United States. Aug 6, 2023 · In Reynolds v. This legal stance is rooted in historical efforts to promote the practice. Feb 9, 2023 · JLI Staff Member Jacqueline R. Conclusion In summary, the answer to the question “Can you have two wives in the USA?” is a resounding no from a legal standpoint. The practice of polygamy, or plural marriage, is illegal in the United States as well as Canada and Mexico. Polyandry is possibly legal in Sri Lanka and Bhutan. Polygamy is defined as having multiple spouses simultaneously, and it originated in common law and is now outlawed in all 50 states. This article will delve into the legality of polygamy in Texas, examining the relevant sections of the Texas Family Code and exploring the statute of limitations for bigamy and polygamy in the state. Jun 10, 2025 · What states allow multiple marriages? No state permits its citizens to enter into more than one concurrent, legally-licensed marriage. Dec 18, 2019 · But the Browns have had several run-ins with the police, since Polygamy isn’t legal in any of the 50 United states. Under civil law, Nigeria does not recognize polygamous unions. Friedman discuss an amendment to Utah’s law against bigamy that recently went into effect. However, there are still individuals who practice polygamy in the US, mainly in certain states that have a history of the practice. It is only the effort to establish legal privileges (ie, civil marriage, which has consequences for tax deductions, intestacy inheritance, alimony in a divorce, medicare & social security calculations, adoption, etc) that is illegal. Mar 7, 2022 · Where is polygamy legal? There are many places across the world – but several factors contribute to the practice being rare in most places. Polygamy is illegal in the majority of countries around the world, including the United States. Polygyny is the state or practice of having more than one wife or female mate at a time, while polyandry is the practice of having more than one husband or male mate at one time. If a marriage takes place in another country where polygamy is legal, the U. , having spouselike relationships with more than one person under the same roof was criminalized in 1882. The majority reasoned that while marriage is a “sacred obligation,” it is nevertheless “usually regulated by law” in “most civilized nations. Entering into a marriage while still being legally married to another person is considered bigamy, a criminal offense in Florida, punishable by law with fines Sep 9, 2022 · Polygamy, bigamy, and multiple marriages are all relationships in which a person has more than one spouse. Jun 24, 2025 · Can You Really Be Arrested for Polygamy? Explore the legal realities of plural relationships, from the distinction between marriage and cohabitation to how anti-polygamy laws are practically enforced. Prosecution for practicing polygamy is rare, and when it does occur, it is usually associated with other criminal activities such as child abuse, fraud, or coercion. Today, people in the U. Nov 4, 2024 · In Reynolds, Chief Justice Waite held that not even the free exercise clause of the Constitution would permit an exception to the law criminalizing polygamy for those who practice it as a requirement of their religion. May 12, 2020 · A law effectively decriminalizing bigamy, when two people marry while at least one of them is already legally married, is now in effect in Utah. They are best known for the reality Jul 7, 2015 · Hofstra University law professor Joanna Grossman and Stanford University law professor Lawrence Friedman comment on a recent legal challenge—based on the U. Polygamous couples obtain a marriage license issued by the state for one marriage, while the other marriages are merely spiritual. While the practice of having multiple spouses simultaneously exists in various cultures worldwide, its legal status and social acceptance vary significantly across different regions and communities. First, we discuss a recent case from the Third Circuit that adopts a broad interpretation of “practicing polygamy” in assessing the Mar 2, 2025 · Polygamy usually implies a formal marital commitment recognized (or unrecognized) by the state, whereas polyamory typically does not involve legal marriage. Each state also has its own laws regarding marriage, including prohibitions against polygamy. In fact, the nineteenth century was rife with May 18, 2023 · Polygamy, the practice of having multiple spouses, is a controversial topic that has been debated in the United States for centuries. In these states, there is no law directly prohibiting polygamy, and multiple wives are allowed, but it generally cannot be sanctioned by the state. Dec 4, 2022 · The United States made polygamy illegal in 1862, nearly thirty years before the Mormon church assented on the matter. Sep 29, 2025 · Learn about U. In Florida, the state’s statutes explicitly define legal marriage as a union between two people, effectively outlawing polygamous marriages. Jun 4, 2020 · SMU Dedman School of Law professor Joanna L. “The law is a failure. Polygamy (called plural marriage by Latter-day Saints in the 19th century or the Principle by modern fundamentalist practitioners of polygamy) was practiced by leaders of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS Church) for more than half of the 19th century, and practiced publicly from 1852 to 1890 by between 20 and 30 percent of Latter-day Saint families.