Same-Sex Marriage and Civil Union Attorney - Law Offices of Annette M. Fernholz

Experienced in LGBT Divorce, Separation and Family Law Issues

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On June 1, 2014, the State of Illinois recognized same-sex marriages. Previously, the Illinois Religious Freedom Protection and Civil Unions Act became effective on June 1, 2011; that Act allowed two people of the same or opposite sex to form a civil union. Between June 1, 2014 until May 31, 2015, civil unions could be converted to marriages. If a union was converted, the marriage would be effective from the date of the original civil union.

In 2015, the United States Supreme Court in Obergefell v. Hodges recognized the fundamental right of marriage to same-sex couples. Despite the passage of new laws and court rulings, there are still many legal issues facing gay and lesbian marriages, particularly if minor children are involved.

Now same-sex couples need legal representation concerning such issues as drafting pre-nuptial agreements, divorce and separation, allocation of parenting rights (formerly child custody) and parenting time, (formerly visitation), child support and maintenance.

Chicago Attorney Protects Your Rights

Annette Fernholz has counseled clients in same-sex divorce, adoption and other family law issues. Please call 312-683-0308 or email for a consultation.

In The News

ISBA top family law cases. The Family Law Section of the Illinois State Bar Association has noted that In re Marriage of Bostrom is one of the five most important family law cases in 2022. Annette Fernholz represented the Appellee and prevailed in the appellate court decision.
Cook County judges return to the courtroom. Post- pandemic, many Cook County judges are now required to return to the courthouse. Many court statuses are still conducted by zoom and it is expected will continue to be via zoom. Most hearings, pre-trials and hearings will be held in the court rooms.
Private mediation services are available to help resolve emergencies, an isolated issue or an entire case. Agreements of the parties reduced to a court order may be entered by the court to help advance your case. The court orders may be of a temporary nature or final disposition of an issue.