Same-Sex Partnership Agreements in DuPage County
In the United States today, many couples are choosing not to get married but remain in committed relationships. Many of these couples desire the option to have partnership agreements even though they are not bound to a marriage decree.
At Wolfe & Stec, Ltd., our lawyers offer legal services to same-sex and unmarried couples. We can help couples face tough decisions concerning property division, domestic partnership, child custody and more.
Domestic Partnership Agreements
Many unmarried couples do not realize that they can maintain their rights through a partnership agreement. This agreement explains the determinations and responsibilities of an unmarried couple.
Some options available to unmarried or same-sex couples are as follows:
- Putting both names on titles, mortgages or other legal documents
- Domestic partnership agreements
- Wills, powers of attorney, etc.
A partnership agreement can be extremely valuable for unmarried couples. If the couple decides to end the relationship, all preferences concerning property and other responsibilities will have been addressed and documented. Our lawyers can help couples arrange a partnership agreement that fits their unique lifestyle.
Adoption And Illinois Law
In Illinois, unmarried couples can simultaneously adopt a child. This is the same service available to married couples.
Although same-sex marriage is not legal in Illinois, adoption by a same-sex couple is. In Illinois, both parties in the same-sex relationship must file a petition for adoption. Once the adoption goes through, both parents have equal rights in parenting.
If the same-sex adoptive couple separates, determinations about child custody and child support have to be made. The child will have legal relationships to one or both parents. Proceedings follow the same guidelines as a married couple, with regard to the rights of the child.
Contact Us
To schedule a free consultation with one of our family law attorneys, contact us online or call us at 630-305-0222.
We also offer legal services regarding prenuptial and postnuptial agreements.
