Family Law & Estate Planning For Same-Sex Couples In Allegheny County
At Beroes Law Center, we welcome all people, including gay and lesbian individuals and families. We understand the unique legal needs of our LGBTQ+ clients. We have experience with same-sex family law issues and estate planning matters.
Same-sex marriage is now legal throughout the United States. However, some of the laws that pertain to same-sex couples can be hard to understand due to their complexity and various applications. When couples face a same-sex family law issue such as divorce or dividing property when a couple is not married, they need an experienced attorney. We are also experienced in same-sex custody cases and adoptions. Our lawyers have more than 30 years of combined legal experience and are prepared to work hard to find a solution for you.
If you are a same-sex couple facing a family law concern, call 412-621-6811 to schedule a free consultation. Our experienced Pittsburgh lawyers understand the unique intricacies of same-sex family law cases and can help you confidently pursue a favorable solution.
Experienced Representation Dissolving Pittsburgh Relationships
If you and your partner are not married and are ending the relationship, we can represent you in the legal aspects of dissolution, such as property division, child custody and child support. If you have a domestic partnership agreement or similar document in place, we will determine how it applies to you.
- Property division: When a couple is not married but living together, the situation can become complicated if the relationship ends. The question often is “Who gets what?” Our firm provides skilled guidance through these situations, including for unmarried couples who purchased a house or other property together. These cases can be contentious and difficult, so it is especially important to have an attorney on your side who not only understands the laws as they pertain to same-sex, unmarried couples, but has experience in these types of matters.
- Custody matters: Child custody is complex for same-sex parents, whether they are married or unmarried. These cases can be contentious and difficult, so it is especially important to have an attorney on your side who understands the custody laws as they pertain to same-sex couples.
If you’re still unsure about the nature of your relationship and how its dissolution works, contact our office today and discuss your circumstances with us. We can help you walk through the processes.
Frequently Asked Questions About Same-Sex Family Law
As an experienced family law firm serving the LGBTQ+ community, we understand the unique challenges and complexities that same-sex couples may face. Here are some common questions and answers regarding same-sex family law in Pennsylvania.
Are Same-Sex Couples Treated Equally Under Pennsylvania Family Laws?
Yes, Pennsylvania family laws are applied equally to same-sex couples and opposite-sex couples. Since the legalization of same-sex marriage in 2014, same-sex married couples have the same legal rights and responsibilities as opposite-sex married couples in matters such as divorce, child custody, property division and adoption.
For unmarried same-sex couples, the laws regarding property division, child custody and other family law matters may be more complex. However, the courts aim to treat all families fairly and equitably, regardless of the parent’s sexual orientation or marital status.
How Does Pennsylvania Determine Child Custody For Same-Sex Parents?
In Pennsylvania, child custody decisions are made based on the best interests of the child, regardless of the parent’s sexual orientation or marital status. The court considers various factors, including the child’s relationships with each parent, the ability of each parent to provide for the child’s needs and the child’s preferences (if they are of sufficient age and maturity).
Same-sex parents have the same rights and responsibilities as opposite-sex parents when it comes to child custody. The court’s primary concern is ensuring the child’s well-being and maintaining a stable, loving environment.
Can Same-Sex Couples Modify Existing Child Custody Arrangements?
Yes, same-sex couples can modify their existing child custody agreements or orders, just like opposite-sex couples. If circumstances have changed significantly since the original custody arrangement was established, either parent can petition the court to modify the custody order.
Common reasons for seeking a custody modification include changes in a parent’s living situation, employment or personal circumstances that may affect their ability to care for the child. The court will evaluate the proposed modification based on the child’s best interests and the specific circumstances of the case.
It’s important to note that the process for modifying a custody order can be complicated, and it’s advisable to seek the guidance of an experienced family law attorney who understands the nuances of same-sex family law in Pennsylvania.
Prepare For The Future With An Estate Plan
All adults should have an estate plan, but it is especially important for those in LGBTQ+ families to have legal documents in place to properly protect and distribute assets, ensure that property passes to their intended beneficiaries, set up guardianships for minor children and give their partners or children the right to take care of their finances and health care if they are incapacitated.
We will help you create a will, trusts, powers of attorney and health care directives, making sure they are in accordance with any existing family law documents, deeds/titles and financial accounts.
Contact Us For Qualified Guidance Throughout Allegheny
We represent clients throughout Allegheny County and the surrounding area. For a free consultation with one of our same-sex couple family law lawyers, please call 412-621-6811, or contact our Pittsburgh office online. Our qualified attorneys will work with you to develop case goals and use either skilled negotiation or assertive litigation tactics to pursue your interests.