6800 Paragon Place, Suite 650, Richmond, VA 23230
LGBTQI Family Law & Related
Given the uncertainty of family law in Virginia for lesbian, gay, bi-sexual and transgender (LGBTQI) individuals, it is very important for LGBTQI individuals in relationships to seek legal counsel and protection. Such protections can include: pre-nuptial and post-nuptial type agreements (even though marriage between same-sex individuals is now recognized under Virginia law), domesticating orders from other states (Virginia courts are obligated to give full faith and credit to the orders of other state courts), obtaining joint custody and visitation orders, and executing reciprocal wills (with trust and guardianship provisions), powers of attorney and advanced medical directives.
LGBTQI Divorce
When same-sex relationships dissolve or appear to be headed towards dissolution, it again is imperative to seek legal counsel and guidance. The case law in Virginia regarding such dissolutions – especially those involving children, is varied and inconsistent. Individuals confronting the dissolution of a same-sex relationship that involves children need to have a good understanding of the state of the law as well as mediation and collaborative law options.
LGBTQI Family Law Guide
“This guide was drafted by Family Equality, in collaboration with Equality Virginia. It addresses many of the legal rights and issues that affect LGBTQI families currently living in Virginia. As LGBTQI equality advances across the nation, Virginia has recently enacted a number of new laws to protect LGBTQI families from discrimination in parental recognition, employment, housing, healthcare, public accommodations, and education. In this changing environment, it is important to understand what the law is in each area and how best to protect your family.”
Resources
- Protecting Families: Standards for LGBTQI Families by GLAD, NCLR, and NCLR’s National Family Law Advisory Council
- Marriage, Domestic Partnerships, and Civil Unions: An Overview of Relationship Recognition for Same-Sex Couples Within the United States by the National Center for Lesbian Rights
Locke Family Law represents family law and personal injury clients in the greater Richmond, Virginia metro area, and throughout Henrico County, Chesterfield County, Hanover County, Goochland County, Powhatan County, Colonial Heights, Amelia County, the City of Richmond, Louisa County, Prince George County, New Kent County, King and Queen County, King William County, Charles City County, and many other localities in Virginia.
