Same-Sex Marriage Legalization in the U.S.

Guidance from an Experienced Garden City Family Attorney

On June 26, 2015, the U.S. Supreme Court handed down a decision on Obergefell v. Hodges, an Ohio case concerning marriage equality. In their ruling, the justices determined that the Constitution provided the right of marriage to all Americans, effectively legalizing same-sex marriage nationwide. The decision was called a "victory for America" by President Obama and instantly hailed as a pivotal civil rights event for the U.S.

Even in states where same-sex marriage is already legal, like New York, this decision could have a bearing on same-sex couples already married—especially if they are facing a family law matter.

At Jonathan E. Edwards P.C., we have long been working with LGBT clients to ensure that their interests are protected and that their family law and divorce goals are met. Now that the Supreme Court has made its ruling, we are excited to continue to serve this community who can finally enjoy all the benefits marriage has to offer.

Retain a Garden City family attorney ready to make your best interests a priority. Contact us today.

New Federal Marriage Benefits for Same-Sex Couples

Same-sex marriage has been legal in New York since 2011. Obergefell v. Hodges, however, has made it so that same-sex couples now have access to federal marriage benefits that were previously unavailable to them.

Some of the new federal marriage benefits include:

• Social security spousal survivor benefits
• Social security retirement benefits
• Social security lump-sum death benefits
• Veteran and military benefits
• Federal employment benefits

As with any shared, financial benefit, these new federal benefits could have a bearing on any current or anticipated family law matter. If you and your fiancé, wife, or husband are facing a legal issue you believe your new federal marriage benefits may affect, then we invite you to contact us today.

We are ready to assess your circumstances and provide solutions that not only speak to your every concern, but address the full breadth of your rights as a married American citizen.

We are ready to hear your story. Contact us today for a free case evaluation.