In a landmark ruling in the case known as Obergefell v. Hodges, the Supreme Court of the United States has extended the right to marry to same-sex couples nationwide. The ruling is effective in two weeks from the announcement of the Court’s decision on June 26, 2015, and will reverse the bans to same-sex marriage in 13 states, including Ohio. Once the ruling takes effect, Ohio will be required to issue marriage licenses to gay and lesbian couples who want to get married. Further, Ohio will be required to recognize the marriages of same-sex couples who were previously married in a state where it was already legal.
Legally, this ruling will change many things in Ohio for married same-sex couples, including, social security benefits, health benefits, health decisions, income tax filing as well as inheritance rights.
One of the more significant by-products of this landmark case is that married same-sex couples will also have access to the court for orders pertaining to division of property and support in the event of divorce. As always, those facing the prospect of a divorce should consult with experienced divorce counsel, regarding all available divorce process options and which one(s) may be most appropriate for the matter.
