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Same-sex couples face child-custody challenges

On Behalf of | Aug 28, 2014 | Same-Sex Couples & Divorce |

When same-sex couples with children separate in Pennsylvania and elsewhere, they may face obstacles to establishing child support, visitation and custody. Many LGBT couples have their children through assisted fertilization or adoption; the result is that one or both parents might not be biological parents of the children. When a domestic partnership ends, the non-biological parent will be at a disadvantage.

In Pennsylvania, it is legal for a second parent of the same gender to adopt per a law enacted in 2002. An adoptive parent possesses all of the same rights as a biological parent when it comes to visitation and child custody. However, non-biological parents who have not adopted may have a difficult time establishing visitation and custody rights if the relationship ends.

Pennsylvania laws governing same-sex couples are complicated and can be confusing. It is a good idea to seek legal counsel from a lawyer with a background in LGBT divorce cases in the event that your relationship comes to an end. The lawyer could help protect your rights and establish fair visitation, child custody and support arrangements.

It’s important to find a legal team that understands the intricacies and complications inherent in the dissolution of an LGBT relationship. With legal help, you can navigate the complex emotional and legal landscape of LGBT family law to obtain a divorce agreement that works for you. If you are involved in a custody dispute and are not the biological parent of your child, it is especially crucial to secure strong counsel.

For more information about our legal practice, please visit our page about child custody disputes involving same-sex couples. In addition to divorce, visitation and child custody issues, we have assisted other LGBT families with other legal matters such as property division and estate planning.

Source: Rowe Law Offices, “Child Custody Disputes Involving Same-Sex Couples“, August 26, 2014

Source: Rowe Law Offices, “Child Custody Disputes Involving Same-Sex Couples“, August 26, 2014

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