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Writer's pictureLori Hammer

Love is Love, But the Law Needs Catching Up: Navigating LGBTQ+ Family Law


Family Law resolutions offer opportunities to make a fresh start and improve your life. For help with your divorce, parentage, including child support and parenting time, prenuptial or postnuptial agreements in Chicago, call Angela Larimer at 773-370-0600 or email Angela at angela@larimerlawllc.com.


While strides have been made towards LGBTQ+ equality, the legal landscape surrounding families still presents unique challenges and opportunities for same-sex couples and transgender individuals. Today, we dive into this dynamic realm, exploring both the hurdles and the hopeful paths forward.


Challenges Faced by LGBTQ+ Families:

  • Discrimination: Overt or implicit bias can rear its ugly head in adoption proceedings, custody battles, and even access to marriage licenses in certain jurisdictions. Fighting these inequalities requires legal expertise and unwavering advocacy.

  • Second-parent adoption: Ensuring both partners in a same-sex couple have secure parental rights requires legal procedures like second-parent adoptions, a process rife with complexities and varying requirements across states.

  • Surrogacy agreements: Navigating contracts, parentage rights, and potential emotional complexities adds another layer to an already intricate journey towards parenthood.

  • Transgender parents: Legal recognition of gender identity, access to fertility treatments, and securing parental rights all pose potential challenges for transgender individuals within the family law system.

But there's hope! Opportunities for Change:

  • Increased awareness and activism: Growing public support and legal challenges are pushing for reforms that create a more inclusive and equitable family law system.

  • Preemptive legal planning: Consulting with an attorney specializing in LGBTQ+ family law can help couples and individuals proactively address potential challenges and establish legal protections.

  • Community resources: A plethora of organizations offer support, legal guidance, and financial assistance specifically tailored to the needs of LGBTQ+ families.

  • Celebrating diversity: Sharing positive stories and highlighting the joys and strengths of LGBTQ+ families helps foster understanding and dismantle harmful stereotypes.

Remember: Every family is unique, and the legal landscape surrounding LGBTQ+ families is constantly evolving. It's crucial to stay informed, seek professional guidance when needed, and advocate for equal treatment under the law.


This blog is just a starting point. Let's keep the conversation going! Share your thoughts, experiences, and resources in the comments below. Together, we can create a future where all families, regardless of their composition, are embraced and protected by the law.


Disclaimer: This blog is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Please consult with an attorney specializing in LGBTQ+ family law for guidance specific to your situation.

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