Same-Sex Couples’ Divorce Lawyer in Chicago, IL
Members of Illinois’ LGBTQ+ community won the right to marry when Governor Pat Quinn signed the Religious Freedom and Marriage Fairness Act in November 2013. This was a momentous win for the LGBTQ+ community.
Marriage involves rights and responsibilities. When a relationship ends, these rights and responsibilities need to be respected throughout the divorce process.
If you’re searching for a divorce attorney for same-sex couples’ divorce in Illinois, contact Metz & Jones LLC. We offer divorce services to individuals in Andersonville, Lakeview, Uptown, Edgewater, and the Greater Chicago area in Cook County. We help ensure our clients are protected throughout all divorce proceedings.
Schedule a Consultation With Our Gay Divorce Attorneys
If you’re facing the difficult reality of divorce, call our Chicago same-sex marriage lawyers today. We’ll be happy to discuss your needs in a confidential manner and offer honest advice on how you should proceed.
We understand that divorce is a big decision that affects more than just the couple involved. Our law firm has over 40 years of experience handling LGBTQ-related family law matters. You can trust our team to protect your rights and the rights of your family. In a dissolution of marriage, we always fight for an outcome that is both fair and safeguards your best interests.
Contact our law firm today to schedule a consultation. We look forward to helping you transition to a successful life post-divorce.
What Issues Can Arise During a Same-Sex Marriage Divorce?
For every couple, the same issues tend to emerge as the leading causes behind a marriage breaking down. These problems often include fights about money, trust, abuse, addiction, or simply losing love for each other over time.
Regardless of the reason two people choose to go their separate ways, at Metz & Jones, our dedicated attorneys offer compassion, knowledge, and experience. We understand the nuances that arise in same-sex separations.
No matter the complexity of your case, we will fight for your rights and help you secure the best possible outcome for any situation, including:
- Division of marital property
- Child custody and visitation
- Child support
- Parental relocation disputes
- Spousal maintenance (formerly known as alimony)
- Drafting postnuptial agreements
- Obtaining orders for protection or defending against domestic abuse allegations
Our family law attorneys in Chicago understand that no two divorce cases are the same. Each couple faces unique challenges to address and overcome. The personalized representation and dedication we provide ensure that each client receives the attention their case deserves.
We treat each client as though they are a member of our team, united and working together toward a common goal. If you win, we win.
Custody Matters in Divorce
Often, custody matters and parental rights are at the forefront of any divorce. For same-sex couples, these issues can become very complicated. For example, if one partner did not adopt a non-biological child during the marriage, they can lose all connection to the child following divorce. This is true even if they acted as a mother or father to the child throughout the marriage.
Our team at Metz & Jones fully understands the importance of keeping your family together, even if you and your partner aren’t. We also understand the legal nuances and complexities involved in these cases. For knowledgeable, experienced legal support during this difficult time, contact our legal team. We have been serving members of the LGBTQ+ community for over 40 years.
Divorce Dispute Resolution Options
Not all divorces need to go to court. Several alternative dispute resolution methods can help you and your ex-spouse resolve matters efficiently and with less stress. Below are some common options to consider that our attorneys can guide you through.
Mediation
Mediation involves working with a neutral third-party mediator who helps both spouses reach a mutual agreement. This option is typically faster and more cost-effective than litigation. Having a divorce attorney during mediation is still highly recommended to ensure your interests are protected.
Collaborative Divorce
In a collaborative divorce, both parties work with their own lawyers and may bring in financial advisors or other professionals. All parties collaborate to tackle different disagreements that come up during the divorce process.
This team-based approach is ideal for spouses who are open to compromise and want to avoid court battles. Collaborative divorce can lead to more personalized outcomes while maintaining a respectful tone. If you foresee yourself and your spouse being willing to negotiate amicably, this could be a great option for you.
Arbitration
Divorce arbitration is a private process where you and your spouse choose an arbitrator who makes binding decisions. This option is different from litigation, where a judge is assigned. You have more control over the rules, schedule, and presentation of evidence.
Although you cannot appeal the arbitrator’s final decision, arbitration offers more flexibility than going to court. For example, you can change the rules for what counts as a witness statement and have it be written instead of in-person. Arbitration can also be faster and more private.
Litigation
If you and your spouse struggle to come to amicable agreements, litigation may be necessary. Litigation involves going to court and having a judge intervene in your negotiations. The judge makes the final decisions on issues like child custody, asset division, and spousal support.
Litigation is often time-consuming and expensive, but it may be the best option in high-conflict cases. Legal representation is critical to help you navigate the court system and protect your rights. At Metz & Jones, we understand the ins and outs of the legal system and can help you go into court feeling prepared and supported.
Contact Our Divorce Lawyers for Same-Sex Couples’ Separation in Chicago, IL
No matter which divorce resolution method you choose— mediation, collaboration, arbitration, or litigation —having an experienced attorney is essential. Learn how we can support you through this difficult process and help you achieve the best possible outcome.
If you’re facing a divorce and looking for a skilled LGBTQ divorce lawyer in Chicago, reach out today. Call our law office at (773) 878-4480 or contact us online to schedule a consultation.
Serving the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender Community and Friends in Chicago, Cook County, and Illinois.