Same-Sex Marriage

Same-sex marriage

Same-sex marriage was legalized in the U.S. state of Georgia on June 26, 2015, by the U.S. Supreme Court’s ruling in the case of Obergefell v. Hodges. Attorney General Sam Olens said Georgia would “adhere to the ruling of the Court”.  The first couple wed just minutes after the ruling was handed down.

When Can I Get Married to My Same-Sex Partner?

Georgia officials can and should let same-sex couples marry immediately, but it may take time in some places. The Supreme Court’s decision invalidated marriage bans from Ohio, Michigan, Kentucky, and Tennessee The same principles apply to Georgia, although some officials may wait until a federal court orders them to comply. We expect that every official will comply as quickly as possible, since a failure to follow the Supreme Court’s decision on a reasonable time frame could subject officials to personal liability and attorney’s fees. But if
you encounter officials who will not act until ordered to do so by a court, contact Lambda Legal.

Additionally, how quickly a couple marries can have significant implications for some benefits (such as Social Security, Veterans benefits, and retirement benefits), which may require couples to be married before one retires, or for a specific length of time, before they are eligible for benefits

Can I Get a Same-Sex Divorce in Georgia?

Yes. In Georgia, the divorce process for same-sex couples is the same divorce process that applies to heterosexual couples. However, there are some unique issues that come with gay marriages that not every law firm is equipped to understand or handle. For example, same-sex couples are often faced unique custody issues that involve sperm donors, adoption, in vitro fertilization, artificial insemination, and other alternate pregnancy methods. Our attorneys at Anene Farrey & Associates, LLC have experience in handling same-sex divorces and litigating the unique issues that come with gay marriages. 

Divorce is one of life’s most stressful, emotionally draining experiences, involving major decisions about assets and debts, determining who will stay in the family home and, most important, arranging for child custody, visitation and support. There is much to consider when filing for a same-sex divorce and you must take steps to protect the futures of yourself and your children.

You can rest assured in knowing that our attorneys will protect you every step of the way.  We represent every client zealously with passion and without judgment.