A few weeks ago, the Associated Press reported that the U.S. Supreme Court announced that it would finally hear a case on the issue of whether or not same-sex marriage should be legal across the country. The Court will also hear oral argument on whether or not a state that currently bans gay marriage should be required to recognize the marriage of a same-sex couple that was performed in a state where same-sex marriage is legal.
While 36 states already permit same-sex marriage, the Court will hear cases originating out of Kentucky, Michigan, Ohio, and Tennessee, where same-sex marriage is not legal. In New Jersey, same-sex marriage became legal in October 2013. Previously, same-sex couples could only enter into civil unions in New Jersey. The U.S. Supreme Court’s ruling, however, could jeopardize the right to marriage for same-sex couples in states like New Jersey that have made gay marriage legal.
The Court’s decision is expected in June, at which point the nation will hopefully have an answer to this hotly debated issue. Until then, however, same-sex marriage will remain legal in states like New Jersey, and similarly, divorce laws will also apply equally to same-sex couples.
If you are in a same-sex marriage, or want to get married, call the experienced attorneys at Sarno da Costa D’Aniello Maceri LLC today for answers to any questions you may have about your legal rights. We can be reached at 973-74-5200.
