If the firefighter named “it” as his beneficiary, then the marriage question is moot. You can name anyone as your beneficiary for life insurance, although in community property states, you need your spouse’s permission if you name anyone other than him/her.
But if the firefighter never named “it” as the beneficiary, or if this is about other spousal benefits, then the legality of the marriage becomes an issue.
“But if the firefighter never named “it” as the beneficiary, or if this is about other spousal benefits, then the legality of the marriage becomes an issue.”
My understanding is the fire chief did in fact name the he/she as his beneficiary. The dispute over benefits comes from his first (real) wife, who feels she is entitled to the proceeds due the fire chiefs sons. On a moral level I agree with her, unfortunately, the legal argument is simple contract law, which will favor the named beneficiary Nikki.