Same-sex divorce
The historic day that Illinois’ civil union bill took effect this past June; a slightly less well-known bit of history took place. A same sex Illinois couple, previously married in Quebec, filed for Illinois’ same sex divorce. With the passage of the law, same sex couples were afforded not only the right to enter into civil unions, but also the right to legally dissolve their relationships. Perhaps it’s not as glamorous a right as some that same sex couples now enjoy in Illinois, but it is certainly important.
This new type of divorce case in Illinois is a perfect example of how important the right to divorce can be for same sex couples.
Dr. Frederick and Mr. Bayer lived in Peoria, having moved there so Frederick could take a job as an emergency room physician. As reported, the couple divided their labor as many partners do. Frederick worked at the hospital while Bayer maintained their home and cared for their son. Previously Bayer had a career as an emergency care nurse.
While it is often a difficult decision for one to put his or her professional career on hold to support a spouse or children, imagine doing so without the knowledge that one may be entitled to maintenance (alimony), child support, and a fair division of assets should the relationship end. Prior to the civil union law, that is what Illinois same sex couples had to do.
Though it comes with little fanfare, this type of divorce might be one of the most important rights that same sex couples now enjoy in Illinois. Relationships that do not work out for whatever reason need to come to a fair and equitable end. And while the thousands of newly civilly united couples in Illinois will work hard to foster healthy relationships, it is crucial that they have the same legal safety net that is available to married heterosexual couples.
Updated on 10-23-18 – Civil Unions are still legal in Illinois. However, in 2013 Illinois had a historic update. Same-sex marriage has been legally recognized in Illinois since a law signed by IL Governor Pat Quinn on November 20, 2013. This law took effect on June 1, 2014.
Michael C. Craven is a well-known divorce attorney in Chicago, CPA and a partner of the law firm, Beermann Pritikin Mirabelli Swerdlove LLP. (Formerly of Beermann, now a Partner at Harrison LLP) located in the Chicago area. He is highly respected among other divorce attorneys, judges and his clients. He also holds a Master of Tax Law Degree (LLM). For more information about his services, contact Michael at mcraven@harrisonheld.comor at Divorce Lawyers Chicago
