NYC Same-Sex Uncontested Divorce Attorney

Team up with a New York City Uncontested Divorce Lawyer

When the state governor signed the Marriage Equality Act on June 24, 2011, New York joined the growing list of U.S. states that have legalized same-sex marriage. It is now possible for gay and lesbian couples not only to enter into a civil union but also to marry—and thereby enjoy all the rights and obligations of marriage. One of these rights is the ability to seek a divorce. While divorce is typically viewed as a negative event—the breakdown of a relationship—it actually offers both parties valuable legal protections that would otherwise be unavailable.

Dividing Assets in a Same-Sex Divorce

When an unmarried couple decides to part ways, it is common for one or both partners to experience some form of injustice in the division of assets and debts—especially if they have lived together for a significant period of time. For instance, the couple may have purchased a home or car together, or one partner may have contributed significantly as a homemaker or provided financial support while the other built a career. In a simple breakup, however, neither party has a legal right to claim compensation for such contributions.

Advantages of Uncontested Divorce

Is there anything different about a same-sex divorce?

Now that same-sex couples can divorce, you no longer have to worry about the legal limitations previously faced. Any property acquired during the course of the marriage will be subject to equitable distribution. Similarly, either spouse may seek spousal maintenance.

One ongoing challenge in same-sex divorces, however, is the issue of child custody. In many families, one partner is the biological parent of a child who was raised by both spouses, but the other partner may not have legally adopted the child. In such cases, it is often essential to work with an experienced attorney to negotiate a workable parenting plan. This plan should aim to provide both parents with shared custody or, at a minimum, establish visitation rights and obligations for child support.

Searching for a lawyer for your divorce in New York City? You need to retain the services of a highly experienced divorce attorney. Our New York City uncontested divorce lawyers understand the unique considerations involved in same-sex divorce and are prepared to begin working on your case immediately.