Do you have questions about same-sex marriage in New Jersey? Check out this educational article, then give our attorney a call to get started.
Thirteen U.S. States and the District of Columbia recognize same-sex marriage; New Jersey is not currently one of them. New Jersey was, however, one of the first states to implement domestic partnerships, and since December 2006 has recognized same-sex partnerships in the legal form of civil unions. In early 2010 a same-sex marriage bill was introduced to the legislature, but was defeated in the Senate.
In 2012 another same-sex marriage bill was introduced in New Jersey. The State Senate and the Assembly passed the bill in February 2012, but not with a veto-proof majority. Governor Christie vetoed the bill and instead called for a constitutional amendment for same-sex marriage to be presented to the voters as a ballot referendum. A ballot referendum, or a “vote on a ballot question” is a form of direct democracy that allows voters to either accept or reject a particular proposal. This past February, state Democratic leaders announced plans to hold a vote to override the 2012 veto; to be successful, the legislation needs twelve additional votes in the House and three more in the Senate.
The recent landmark decision by the Supreme Court in United States v. Windsor, which declared a portion of the federal Defense of Marriage Act (DOMA) unconstitutional, is expected to significantly affect the status of same-sex rights in New Jersey as well as many other states.
If you and a loved one want to enter into a legal same-sex relationship and would like to know your options as a couple, the law offices of Freeman Hughes Freeman, LLC can help. We know this area of the law can become confusing when dealing with employers, and agencies, which is why the law offices of Freeman Hughes Freeman, LLC take an unintimidating personal approach to every case. Brian and Tanya, the husband and wife team that lead our firm, ensure that every client is informed about their legal rights every step of the way.
We have a caring staff with bilingual paralegals that are dedicated to taking care of you and your family’s needs. Please contact Freeman Hughes Freeman, LLC at (201) 222-7765 or click here to schedule a free consultation. For your convenience, we accept credit cards and offer evening and weekend appointments. No matter what your legal issue, Freeman Hughes Freeman, LLC, will put your needs first. We are committed to providing our New Jersey clients with reliable services when dealing with difficult legal situations.