Same Sex Marriage

In 2015, marriage equality was enshrined by the United States Supreme Court in the case of Obergefell v. Hodges.  This landmark decision granted same-sex couples the right to marry nationwide.  The decision marked a major change to the law in Ohio, which at the time was one of the 14 remaining states with a ban on same-sex marriage.  With the release of the Court’s ruling on June 26, 2015, courthouses in Cleveland and across the state opened their doors to gay and lesbian couples to apply for marriage licenses and live as married couples - with all attendant rights and obligations under the law.

Even with these advances, same sex couples even today face novel issues when their marriages come to an end.  Child custody, issues of property division and support – particularly when there has been a long-term relationship that predates 2015 – can present unique problems and challenges for same sex couples.  A knowledgeable family law attorney can help you navigate those distinctive issues successfully.