In the Media

How Hawaii prevents prisoners from marrying | Sadhbh Walshe

PUBLISHED July 19, 2012
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Prisons and jails are not the most romantic of places, nor are they particularly appealing wedding venues. Yet, every year, thousands of prisoners exercise their constitutionally protected right to get married while incarcerated. And despite the fact the ceremonies tend to be bleak affairs, with no cake and few (if any) guests, and that the happy couple do not get to enjoy any of the usual conjugal perks in the immediate aftermath, prisoners continue to request permission to get married. Barring any legitimate safety concern, their request will be granted. Unless, that is, the prisoner is a resident of the state of Hawaii, in which case it's far more likely the request will be denied.

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