New York's Marriage Equality Act

Long Island Family Attorney

In New York's enactment of the Marriage Equality Act in 2011, same sex couples are finally being granted the right to marry. While the state has honored same-sex marriage that has been legally performed in other states, the GLBT community has always found extreme difficulty in finding equality. The time has finally come to break free from the chains of restriction and finally rejoice for marriage equality for all.

Changes to the Law

The Marriage Equality Act, signed into effect in June, actually amends a current law that New York has in place. The Domestic Relations Law has now been changed with the following amendments in favor of same-sex marriage:

• A marriage is valid regardless of the sexual orientation or gender of both parties.
• No government treatment, legal status, right, privilege, benefit, responsibility or protection offered in marriage will differ based on the sexual orientation or gender of the parties in the marriage.
• All relevant gender-specific language referenced by New York law must be constructed in a gender-neutral manner.
• No application for a marriage license can be denied based upon the gender or sexual orientation of the parties involved.

While the law is extremely beneficial for all parties involved, it also allows for religious entities, benevolent organizations and not-for-profit corporations to refuse to perform a marriage ceremony or provide their facility for a ceremony should their religious principles forbid them to do so.

Choose Skilled Legal Counsel in Long Island

At Meyers Law Group, we provide clients with the resources and information necessary to find a favorable outcome in any case. We always remain up to date on all laws and regulations related to marriage, divorce, family law and all related matters. As a seasoned law firm, we strongly urge you to consider your options and premarital agreements before getting married in the State of New York. Call us today to learn your rights and retain the powerful advocacy of a seasoned attorney. Whether you are looking for help with child custody, child support, divorce, nuptial agreements or modifications, we are ready to assist your case!

To read a full copy of the bill, please click here.