The dedicated Deerfield, IL same sex divorce lawyer team at Merel Family Law understands how stressful divorce can be and are experienced with helping people dissolve their same sex marriages with as little stress and time as possible. We have been open since 2009 and have over 221 years of combined experience helping people with their family law needs.
Marriage Equality And Divorce Rights
Since same sex marriage became legal nationwide in 2015, couples have had the same rights as opposite-sex spouses when it comes to divorce. However, because many same sex couples were together for years before being legally allowed to marry, dividing assets and determining spousal support can sometimes present unique challenges. Courts in both Illinois and Michigan can only divide marital property that was accumulated after the legal marriage, not during the years the couple lived together before marriage. This distinction can make it difficult to fairly separate property when both partners contributed financially and emotionally long before their marriage was legally recognized.
Parental Rights And Custody Challenges
Divorce is often complicated, and it is more so when children are involved. For same sex parents who have used surrogates or second-parent adoptions, your rights may be feeling threatened, but a good family lawyer can help to make sure that they are upheld. In Illinois and Michigan, custody decisions are based on the best interests of the child, but legal parentage still plays a major role. If one parent is not the biological or legally recognized parent, that person may face challenges in securing custody or parenting time.
Our team helps parents understand their legal rights and options. We work to protect parental bonds and make certain that the child’s relationships with both parents are preserved whenever possible. Legal steps such as second-parent adoptions or confirming parentage early in the relationship can help strengthen these rights before any dispute arises.
Property And Financial Considerations
Property division and spousal support are often major parts of any divorce, and same sex divorces are no different. Courts consider income, assets, debts, and contributions each spouse made during the marriage. However, because same sex couples may have acquired property together before their legal marriage, identifying what is considered marital versus non-marital can become more complicated.
Spousal support, or maintenance, may also come into play if there is a significant difference in income or financial need. The length of the marriage, standard of living, and each spouse’s earning potential all influence the outcome. We work with clients to make sure all relevant financial information is presented so that the result is fair and sustainable for both parties.
Many people do not know what to expect during the divorce filing process, and if you have questions, you should ask your lawyer everything you want to know about so that you do not get surprised or feel uncomfortable during this time.
We Are Here To Help Every Step Of The Way
At Merel Family Law, we are proud to represent clients in both Illinois and Michigan who are facing the challenges of same sex divorce. Our goal is to make the process as efficient and supportive as possible, while protecting what matters most—your family, your rights, and your peace of mind.
If you need a skilled and compassionate divorce lawyer who is experienced with same-sex divorces, Merel Family Law is here to help. We have 24/7 live answering. Reach out to us any time of the day or night, any day of the year.
