Leeds Morelli Brown, Law Firm Blog 

On October 10, 2008, Connecticut’s Supreme Court ruled that gay and lesbian couples have the right to marry.  Connecticut is the third state, after Massachusetts and California, to decide that its state constitution mandates that its citizens be treated equally when applying for marriage licenses, regardless of their sexual orientation.  Civil unions and domestic partnerships are offered to same-sex couples in New Jersey, Vermont, New Hampshire, Oregon, Hawaii, Maine, Washington and the District of Columbia.  New York recognizes same sex unions from other jurisdictions.  

 On the surface, it may appear that the movement toward legalizing gay and lesbian marriage has taken off, and that states will begin to follow the lead of California, Massachusetts, and Connecticut.  However, a campaign opposing such legalization is gaining strength.  In California, voters will be asked to approve Proposition 8, which would change the state Constitution to eliminate the right of same-sex couples to marry in California.  Similarly, Connecticut voters will be asked whether the state should hold a convention to make changes to the State Constitution.  If such a convention is held there is a chance the legality of same-sex marriage will overturn. 

 Although the 2008 General Election ballot in New York will not pose any questions regarding same-sex marriage, the Attorneys at  www.lbdivorcelaw.com
 would like to hear your opinion on the subject.  New York State has not legalized same-sex marriage, but will recognize such unions from other jurisdictions. Our toll free number is 1-800-545-4658.

Do you think New York should change its position and join California, Massachusetts, and Connecticut, in legalizing gay and lesbian marriages?