Same-Sex Marriage

Same-sex marriage is currently under court review in Kentucky. If you are interested in exploring same-sex marriage in Kentucky, it is important that you speak with an experienced family law attorney that is well-versed in up-to-date changes in the law.

• Love v. Beshear is a case pending in federal court regarding the freedom for same sex couples to marry in Kentucky.
• Kentucky Equality Federation v. Beshear is a case pending in Kentucky state court regarding the recognition by Kentucky of marriages of same-sex couples performed in other states.
• Hardee v. Beshear is a case pending in Kentucky state court regarding the freedom for same sex couples to marry in Kentucky.

Dissolution of Marriage

Married same-sex couples wishing to dissolve their marriage need to be aware of the jurisdictional requirements to get a divorce. If a couple weds in a state where same-sex marriage is legal but resides in a state where same sex marriage is not legal, that couple may have a difficult time dissolving their marriage in their state of residency.

In Kentucky, Romero v. Romero is the state’s first case involving a same-sex couple who were married in another state where same-sex marriages are legal, and who want to dissolve their marriage in Kentucky.

Lesbian and Gay Parents

Same-sex couples who have children together through assisted reproduction or persons who become parents in the context of a prior heterosexual marriage or relationship may encounter difficult custody issues. Bourke v. Beshear is a case currently pending in Kentucky state court regarding the recognition of second-parent adoption for same-sex couples. Because the status of LGBT rights is currently evolving nationally and in Kentucky, it is important to talk with an experienced attorney to understand your rights with respect to child custody.

If you have questions about your rights and responsibilities in the content of a same-sex relationship, contact Sparks Integrative Family Law to learn more about the status of the law and how it can impact you and your family’s lives. Our lawyers have much experience in assisting partners and parents in this rapidly changing area of family law.