Domestic Partnerships / Same Sex Marriage

Southern California Domestic Partnership Attorney

In California, the rights of same sex couples have been on a rollercoaster over the last several years. Rights are granted, then they are taken away. However, on May 15, 2008, the ban on gay marriages was ruled unconstitutional - enabling same sex couples to solidify their relationship in marriage. As with any major transformation, this ruling has brought many questions and concerns from people with regard to their current domestic partnership.

Family law attorney John A. Balent stays on top of the ever changing laws in California. Our law firm is capable of providing informative legal advice to clients with questions about their domestic partnerships, same sex marriage and dissolution or termination of domestic partnerships or marriages. Contact the Law Offices of John A. Balent to talk to an experienced family law attorney in Southern California.

Gay and Lesbian Marriage in California

Same sex couples are now afforded the same rights as heterosexual couples in the right to marry. All rights, protections, and benefits afforded to spouses will be granted to same sex couples who marry.

Same sex married couples encounter the same issues upon dissolution of the marriage as heterosexual spouses in divorce. We assist clients with issues such as property division (division of marital assets AND liabilities), child custody and visitation and other issues that arise.

The Effect on Current Domestic Partnerships

The most common question posed by current domestic partners is 'How will this ruling affect my current domestic partnership?' Rest assured that your rights have not changed. The ruling on same sex marriages does not impact current domestic partnerships. If domestic partners choose to marry, the existing domestic partnership does not need to be terminated.

However, if circumstances have arisen in your family and the time has come to part ways, our firm can assist you with dissolution of the domestic partnership. The procedure for dissolving a domestic partnership is similar to that of a divorce. However, if the matter is uncontested, there are no children, and other specific requirements are met, the couple may file a Notice of Termination of Domestic Partnership with the Secretary of State in order to avoid the emotional and financial turmoil of the dissolution proceeding.

Experienced Legal Help in Southern California

Whether you have questions about a declaration or registration of domestic partnership, same sex marriage, or dissolution of domestic partnership or marriage, a family law attorney can help.