West Hartford Domestic Partner and Civil Union Lawyers
In October 2008, the state of Connecticut reached a historic milestone in the area of gay and lesbian rights. The Connecticut Supreme Court ruled that the ban on same-sex marriage was unconstitutional and that the state must now legalize it. Accordingly, the state has been issuing marriage licenses to same-sex couples since November 2008.
If you and your partner are currently in a civil union, you undoubtedly have many questions. First and foremost, you are more than likely wondering "how does the legalization of gay marriage affect my civil union?" The simple answer is that this has little to no effect on your civil union. In fact, your civil union will be officially converted to a marriage (with no action needed on your part) by October 1, 2010. More importantly, your rights will be unaffected and be the same as a traditional married couple.
It is important to note that prior to October 1, 2010, civil unions are still recognized under Connecticut law and the terminology will still be utilized (even though synonymous with gay marriage).
Located in West Hartford, and representing clients throughout Connecticut, Zaslow & Sandler, LLC has more than 25 years of combined legal experience in family law, including helping same-sex couples with difficult legal issues.
To discuss civil unions and the recent legalization of gay marriage with an experienced West Hartford divorce and family law attorney, contact Zaslow & Sandler, LLC at (866) 676-0364 toll-free.
A same-sex marriage, a civil union and a domestic partnership are all essentially legally recognized unions between two persons of the same sex.
However, even among the states that do recognize some form of same-sex unions, there is vast difference from state to state. California, Connecticut, and Massachusetts recognize same-sex marriages. Washington has domestic partnerships. And, Vermont has civil unions. Regardless, same-sex couples need to understand the differences from state to state.
If a traditional married couple moves across the country, wherever they go their marriage will be recognized. Conversely, if a same-sex couple who has entered into a marriage, civil union or domestic partnership moves across country to a state that does not recognize any same-sex unions, they will not have the same legal rights afforded to them. Same-sex marriages, civil unions and domestic partnerships typically only afford rights in the state in which the ceremony was performed.
If you are looking to live in Connecticut or if your same-sex union has broken down, you should consult with one of our attorneys regarding your rights and responsibilities. We will take great care to inform you of the laws and protections surrounding same-sex marriage in Connecticut.
Contact a Skilled West Hartford Civil Union and Same-Sex Marriage Lawyer
To learn more about civil unions and same-sex marriages in Connecticut, or to discuss how a civil union agreement can be supplemented to help afford you more rights (such as powers of attorney and healthcare directives), please schedule a confidential consultation with an attorney at Zaslow & Sandler, LLC. Call (860) 956-5693 or (866) 676-0364 toll-free. You may also contact us online.
