Divorce Poses New Challenges for Same-Sex Couples

By Sheryl Rentz on May 20, 2010

Entering into marriage is proving much easier than walking away from it, as many same-sex married couples are finding out. According to a recent CNN.com article, a new issue is starting to manifest itself, posing an interesting dilemma that has some states at odds over what to do. That is, while same-sex marriage may be legal in a handful of states across the country, those states who oppose such unions are now at the center of a new issue – divorce involving same-sex couples.

Reportedly, one such couple – two women who were legally married in Massachusetts, but who reside in Pennsylvania – were denied their request of a divorce in Pennsylvania. While states typically recognize the laws of other states, and act accordingly when making their own decisions, the issues of same-sex marriage has many state legislators confused as to how to proceed with divorce cases. One point of concern revolves around the idea that, if a state that opposes gay marriage signs off on a gay divorce, then that state may in essence be recognizing gay marriage as legal, despite state laws that say otherwise.

While any Pennsylvania divorce case is complicated, matters become much more exasperated when state law begins to be interpreted in a variety of ways. When this type of complication takes place, there may be the potential for multiple appeals and much debate to take place. However, regardless of the circumstances, the skilled Philadelphia family law attorneys at the Law Offices Sheryl R. Rentz have experience handling a variety of divorce cases. Our dedicated and knowledgeable divorce lawyers in Philadelphia are prepared to ensure that the rights of our clients are not infringed upon in a court of law. If you are thinking of filing for divorce, please don’t hesitate to contact the Philadelphia divorce attorneys at the Law Offices of Sheryl R. Rentz for more information and a free case consultation. Call 610-645-0100 today.