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I posted this on elsewhere, and folks found it helpful, so here it is for y’all

For #lgbtq married couples, it's time to take steps to protect your marriage in case same-sex marriage is officially dissolved in the coming years. My husband and I did this when Roe V Wade was overturned, so I hope this is helpful. 👇

#lgbtq
in reply to Jack Phoenix…from the library

Jack Phoenix…from the library
Jack Phoenix…from the library
• •
Find a lawyer, preferably an attorney but work with what you can afford, who specializes in LGBT probate and estate law. The purpose of this is to put all the rights that come with marriage into legally binding documents. 👇
in reply to Jack Phoenix…from the library

Jack Phoenix…from the library
Jack Phoenix…from the library
• •
This will include crafting or updating wills to ensure that your belongings go to your spouse in case of death and vice versa, that you share in the property/estate, that you each have power of attorney, can make healthcare decisions, hospital visits, and much more. 👇
in reply to Jack Phoenix…from the library

Jack Phoenix…from the library
Jack Phoenix…from the library
• •
This will secure all the rights that marriage is supposed to include, so you're basically doing what some couples did before Obergefell. This can bring you peace of mind and legally secure your relationship if your marriage is taken away by the fed and state governments. Alas, it's an indignity and...It's expensive. I think it cost us around $3,000. BUT here are some resource that can help! There may be pro bono options out there, so please explore these: 👇
in reply to Jack Phoenix…from the library

Jack Phoenix…from the library
Jack Phoenix…from the library
• •

Here is a resource that contains lists to all kinds of other legal resources for LGBT people, including Lambda Law. Nearly any of these resources can help direct you to someone who can help, especially if you need this done at a reduced cost or pro bono

lgbtqbar.org/about/gethelp/

You can also try your local bar association, which will often have a resource to direct you to specific types of lawyers in your area. Here is a link to Cleveland's. But also...

clemetrobar.org/?pg=clientRefe…


Need a Lawyer? - The National LGBTQ+ Bar Association

Are you or a family member LGBTQ+ and in need of a lawyer? The National LGBTQ+ Bar cannot give legal counsel or recommend attorneys, but one of our affiliates may be able to help.
The National LGBTQ+ Bar Association and Foundation
in reply to Jack Phoenix…from the library

Jack Phoenix…from the library
Jack Phoenix…from the library
• •

Simply Google "LGBT lawyer near me" or something similar and contact those folks for help. Even if they are out of your price range, they can refer you. If you don't know the right terms, which I didn't, basically just state you want to secure the same rights as marriage in case Obergefell falls

Lastly, if you are having trouble finding a resource that is helpful, ask your local library to help you. They will work until they can refer you to the right resource. 👇

in reply to Jack Phoenix…from the library

Jack Phoenix…from the library
Jack Phoenix…from the library
• •

We shouldn't have to do this, I know, but I think it will help ease some anxiety and dread if you do. Hopefully, that's ALL it has to help with…

But if our marriages are indeed made illegal again, these documents may help secure your rights to each other. Even though Congress passed the Respect for Marriage Act which should protect existing marriages at the fed level, I don't trust this SCOTUS to not strike it down too. Stay safe all 💙

⇧