Santa Barbara Divorce Attorney & Family Law Lawyer

QUESTIONS? CALL US.

(805) 879-7523

DOMA Ruled Unconstitutional By Boston Appeals Court (LGBT)

Mar 1, 2015 | LGBT Legal News

In a landmark ruling today, the Boston First Circuit Court of Appeals unanimously ruled that the Defense of Marriage Act (DOMA) is unconstitutional because it denies federal benefits to same-sex married couples.

The full decision can be read here: http://www.glad.org/uploads/docs/cases/gill-v-office-of-personnel-management/2012-may-31-gill-v-opm-first-circuit-ruling.pdf?p1=News_links

The court declared DOMA unconstitutional because it discriminates against same-sex couples by failing to give them the same rights and privileges that heterosexual couples receive and it interferes with a state’s right to define marriage.

The case must reach the U.S. Supreme Court before any ruling can be enforced.

Subscribe to Our Blog


 

Does California Require Separation Before Divorce?

When couples make the decision to get married, they hope it lasts forever; however, life happens and some couples find themselves seeking a divorce. Each state has their own laws regarding how and when couples can make their divorces legal, including if the couple...

Why Is Co-Parenting So Difficult?

Couples who find themselves divorcing have to contend with a variety of issues, such as costly litigation or long days of negotiations. If these couples have children, they have to face another major problem: co-parenting. Co-parenting should be an opportunity to...

What Are the Three Types of Co-Parenting?

Nobody expects to divorce when they make wedding vows. They also do not expect to have to figure out a parenting plan with their ex-spouse, either amicably or through a contentious separation. Recently separated couples will have to learn the type of co-parenting that...

How Is Child Custody Determined in California?

Many people who are going through a divorce wonder, “How is child custody determined in California?” The straightforward answer is that it’s up to the family court judge overseeing the case. Custody judges take all factors into account when determining what custody...

What Does a Family Lawyer Do In California?

Family law in California can be an intricate and complex world to navigate on one’s own. Understanding the fundamentals of California family law is essential if you find yourself facing a family law case, and it is important to know, “What does a family lawyer do in...

What Qualifies for Full Custody in California?

Some of the most contentious issues to resolve in family law involve the health and well-being of children. This is especially true in divorce cases where both parting spouses may have major disagreements on what the most favorable arrangement for their children is....

How Are Domestic Violence Cases Handled in California?

Domestic violence is a serious situation that has a drastic impact on the lives of everyone involved. No matter what side of the situation you are on, knowing the law and how the process works in handling these types of cases is crucial for those seeking justice....

How Is Spousal Support Determined in California?

Divorce can be an emotionally trying time, especially when legal and financial matters are considered. Spousal support, better known as alimony, often is a pivotal aspect of divorce settlements, designed to ensure the financial stability of the lesser-earning spouse...

How Does Mediation Work in a Divorce?

It’s not always easy to consider divorce as a journey you’re about to embark on since no one plans for or expects a marriage to end. Divorce can be daunting since it often carries a negative connotation. This is often from the process of litigation and its downsides...

How Long After Mediation Is Divorce Final in California?

Going through a divorce can be an unpleasant and stressful experience for the individuals involved. As such, it’s understandable to want your divorce to be finalized as quickly as possible. Mediation is a solution that can simplify the process of a divorce because it...