What Do You Need to Know When Seeking a Civil Union?

The Colorado Civil Union Act has been in effect for about four months now and is still a point of controversy and debate. Regardless, it is law and grants long awaited for equal rights to same sex couples who wish to have the same legal rights as a heterosexual marriage. Although the event is termed a "civil union" and not a "marriage", recent events prove that a same sex couple who have been married in another state or who have entered into civil union in Colorado can seek a divorce. It is therefore crucial that same sex couples are well aware of all the aspects of a civil union—both before and potentially after the union (should the couple choose to divorce). Consult with a divorce attorney well-versed in civil unions if you have any questions pertaining to your specific situation.

The new civil union law means that a same-sex couple that has resided in Colorado for more than 90 days can obtain a civil union and then have legal protections. These protections include parental rights, rights of inheritance, shared property, rights concerning medical decisions and insurance benefits and other such matters. This also means that should the couple seek a divorce or dissolution of the union then agreements will need to be made concerning division of property, assets and debts, child custody, child support, spousal support, etc. Couples may wish to establish a prenuptial agreement and should also speak with an attorney concerning adopting a child or the birth of a child in a female civil union to ensure parental rights do not become an issue later on.

Divorce Lawyer for Matters Concerning a Civil Union

Contact a divorce lawyer with the Jones Law Firm to discuss how we may be able to you with your legal goals. We are dedicated to helping couples and families in Denver with their family law matters. A same-sex union can be fraught with a variety of emotional legal concerns just as any marriage—this fact is independent of whether there is a bride and groom, two men or two women. We understand how important it is for any individual or couple to understand and protect rights and relationships. An attorney with our firm has helped clients with issues concerning paternity, divorce, mediation, prenuptial agreements, property division, high net worth divorce, child custody, military divorce and much more. We may be able to help you with your legal needs.