After decades of pushing for the right to marry someone of their same gender, LGBTQ activists across the nation are rejoicing after being awarded what some are calling their biggest victory to date. On June 26th, 2015, the U.S. Supreme Court ruled in favor of legalizing same-sex marriages in all 50 states, regardless of previous state rulings. But the verdict has not come without heaps of controversy.
Supporters of the decision believe that same-sex couples’ rights, as bestowed in the 14th Amendment, are finally being upheld. Those opposing it are citing an entirely different set of issues that they feel need to be immediately addressed. Some say the decision has nothing to do with the Constitution and that it actually violates states’ rights. More still claim it directly violates the freedom of churches and their own religious belief.
Are Changes to Family Law and Divorce Coming?
In light of the sudden shift of marriage rights in the country, lawmakers may have to reevaluate certain aspects of family law. For example, same-sex couples were simultaneously also granted the right to divorce their spouse, no matter where they lived. That much has already been established. But what about more obscure concepts that used to hinge, more or less, on a particular gender in a marriage, such as issues concerning fathers’ rights, child custody, and child support? Some speculate that there will have to be revisions to the law that could actually improve them overall. As of now, whether or not that will happen remains unclear.
If you want to know more about your newfound rights as a person in a same-sex marriage in Massachusetts, contact a Worcester divorce attorney from the Law Office of Robert W. Kovacs, Jr. today. Our lead attorney, Mr. Robert W. Kovacs, Jr., comes highly rated through Avvo and can surely handle any family law matters that might be troubling you.
