Same-sex couples may encounter additional and unique difficulties during divorce. Same-sex marriage was legalized in 2015 and before that some states allowed for domestic partnerships. In such cases, it may be necessary to dissolve the domestic partnership in addition to the legal marriage. If a couple lived monogamously prior to the legal marriage, there is a question as to whether that period will be considered for alimony determination. Finally, the parental rights to children must be determined. Same-sex couples may be best served by alternate means of marriage dissolution, i.e. mediation and collaboration, and the help of a divorce financial specialist. For further information, read this article.
Tag Archives: domestic partnership
Advice for Boomer Same-Sex Couples Facing Divorce
How Advisers Can Help Same-Sex Couples Navigate Legacy Issues
Same-sex marriage is now legal in the US and in many other countries. However, before marriage was legal, same-sex couples may have registered as domestic partnerships in their states. If such couples divorce, they may still be legally bound with respect to debts and estates. Couples should check with their state whether they need to dissolve the domestic partnership now that they are married. In addition, to ensure access to children of the relationship, it is recommended that the non-biological parent pursue a second-parent adoption. Read this article for more information.