Same-sex marriages in Missouri have been legal since 2015 when the US Supreme Court struck down bans on marriage between two people of the same sex. Therefore, if you are wondering whether the state of Missouri recognizes same-sex divorces, the answer is yes. However, remember that the considerations for same-sex marriages may differ.
If you are considering filing for a divorce, it is recommended to work with an attorney. All kinds of divorces can be difficult, but same-sex divorces can add to the complexity. An attorney who is aware of the ever-changing laws can help you through a successful and smooth divorce. To learn more, visit the site of Raza Family Law Solutions.
Considerations in a same-sex divorce
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Recognition of marriage and divorce.
If you are a same-sex married couple looking to get divorced, you first need to check whether your state and jurisdiction recognize same-sex marriages and divorces. Things could get complex if you had gotten married before same-sex marriage was legalized in your state. It is best to consult with an attorney to deal with these complexities.
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Parental rights.
Since same-sex couples can reproduce offsprings of their own, child custody battles and parental rights and responsibilities become more complex. Some same-sex couples have children through various means, such as adoption, surrogacy, and other alternative reproduction methods. Make sure you and your spouse agree on who is responsible for what and clarify each other’s roles in your child’s life.
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Non-biological parent rights.
In some same-sex couples, one spouse may be the biological parent, and the other may be the adoptive one. Not biological or adoptive parents may face difficulties securing their parental rights upon divorce. If you are such a parent, you deserve to spend equal time with your child. Talk to an attorney about your rights today.
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Social stigma and bias.
Even though the world has begun to accept same-sex couples, they are still victims of social stigma and bias. That is why it is important to hire an attorney who is sensitive to these issues and specifically handles cases similar to yours. An experienced same-sex divorce attorney knows the potential challenges you might encounter throughout the procedure and can guide you.
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Seek community resources.
Laws regarding same-sex marriages and divorces can be confusing since they are still new and keep changing from time to time. You can seek help from LGBTQ+-friendly resources, organizations, and support groups for guidance. Since these are tailored to the needs of people like you, they can assist you.