Law.com Subscribers SAVE 30%

Call 855-808-4530 or email [email protected] to receive your discount on a new subscription.

The Matrimonial StrategistFeaturesKickerLJN NewslettersNewsSections

Terminating Same-Sex Partnerships

By Laurence J. Cutler and Julie R. Katz
April 02, 2015

Ending a romantic relationship is always difficult and presents various practical issues, some of which may include support, distribution of assets and custody. The issues that heterosexual couples face when ending a relationship are even more complicated for same-sex couples. The extent of these problems varies by state, depending on each state's recognition of same-sex relationships.

There are three tiers of legally recognized same-sex relationships: Domestic Partnerships, Civil Unions and Marriage. The rights and protections afforded by each of these tiers vary by state, and not all states recognize each of the three tiers. Generally, Domestic Partnerships afford couples the least benefits and protections, and are not recognized by other states that do not permit these partnerships. Civil Unions afford couples nearly all of the same state benefits and protections as married, heterosexual couples, but do not provide for the same Federal benefits or protections. Like Domestic Partnerships, Civil Unions are generally not recognized by other states that do not permit Civil Unions. Same-sex marriage provides couples with the most benefits and automatically conveys couples the same Federal rights and protections as heterosexual marriages.

This premium content is locked for Entertainment Law & Finance subscribers only

  • Stay current on the latest information, rulings, regulations, and trends
  • Includes practical, must-have information on copyrights, royalties, AI, and more
  • Tap into expert guidance from top entertainment lawyers and experts

For enterprise-wide or corporate acess, please contact Customer Service at [email protected] or 877-256-2473

Read These Next
New York's Latest Cybersecurity Commitment Image

On Aug. 9, 2023, Gov. Kathy Hochul introduced New York's inaugural comprehensive cybersecurity strategy. In sum, the plan aims to update government networks, bolster county-level digital defenses, and regulate critical infrastructure.

The Bankruptcy Hotline Image

Recent cases of importance to your practice.

Law Firms are Reducing Redundant Real Estate by Bringing Support Services Back to the Office Image

A trend analysis of the benefits and challenges of bringing back administrative, word processing and billing services to law offices.

How AI Has Affected PR Image

When we consider how the use of AI affects legal PR and communications, we have to look at it as an industrywide global phenomenon. A recent online conference provided an overview of the latest AI trends in public relations, and specifically, the impact of AI on communications. Here are some of the key points and takeaways from several of the speakers, who provided current best practices, tips, concerns and case studies.

CLE Shouldn't Be the Only Mandatory Training for Attorneys Image

Each stage of an attorney's career offers opportunities for a curriculum that addresses both the individual's and the firm's need to drive success.