Same sex couples are running into problems in states such as Georgia that do not recognize same-sex marriage. Couples are finding that they can’t even get their name change with their marriage license from another state through Georgia Department of Motor Vehicles. Same-sex advocates are finding this occurring throughout the southern part of the country. Advocates say that the federal government is attempting to make the transition for same-sex couple smooth but that the state government is not.
Name changes can take place through the court system but will cost hundreds of dollars to finalize. Many same-sex couples refuse to pay this amount for something that heterosexual couples get for free. Advocates are attempting to get states that don’t recognize same-sex marriage to make what they consider a small step in the right direction without same-sex marriage being legal in the state. Advocates of same-sex marriage believe that state agencies have the power to interpret its policies to allow a name change in a state where same-sex marriage is not legal.
Tiffany Lunn of Lunn Law believes that Georgia should expect increased litigation on the issue in months and years to come. Advocates are determined to obtain certain rights and the courts will likely have to rule one way or the other. Advocates do not think it’s as clear because at the time of this original publication same-sex marriage is still not legal under Georgia law. Stay tuned to see how these matters develop. You can read more at: http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2013/10/17/same-sex-couple-name-change_n_4111173.html. If you need assistance with Domestic Partnership Agreements or other documents that can assist same-sex couples in Georgia, feel free to contact Tiffany Lunn for legal assistance.
Categories: Divorce
Attorney Tiffany Lunn of Lunn Law LLC: Georgia Family Law Blog 