Not long ago, estate planning lawyers strongly encouraged LGBTQ couples to create comprehensive estate plans because they were not allowed the same protections as heterosexual couples. Despite the groundbreaking court decisions in many states across the country, it is still very wise for LGBTQ couples to consider the unique estate planning issues that they are likely to face. Our attorneys are here to provide estate planning advice for LGBTQ couples. Overcoming Lingering Bias against LGBTQ … [Read more...] about Estate Planning Advice for LGBTQ Couples
LGBTQ Estate Planning
LGBTQ Estate Planning Must Address Retirement Issues
It is the opinion of some that our LGBTQ community is facing a retirement crises that may be different than that of others in Orange County and elsewhere. Even considering the fact that same-sex marriage is now legal in California and several other states, it is still important for the LGBTQ community to consider the unique estate planning issues that they will likely face. This includes addressing the potential retirement issues that they may face in their senior years. Let our Orange County … [Read more...] about LGBTQ Estate Planning Must Address Retirement Issues
6 Tips for Orange County LGBTQ Estate Planning
When it comes to Orange County LGBTQ estate planning, same-sex couples face some unique issues. Even with the favorable court decisions seen across the country, it is still important for the LGBTQ community to consider the unique estate planning issues that they will likely face. In fact, estate planning for LGBTs may be even more critical. Here are six estate planning tips for same-sex couples to consider. No. 1 - You need to have a will The basic component of Orange County LGBTQ estate … [Read more...] about 6 Tips for Orange County LGBTQ Estate Planning
Proposed Legislation in California Could Improve Safety of LGBTQ Seniors
Even with the great advances that have been seen in LGBTQ rights, we still have a long way to go. Indeed, LGBTQ seniors who find themselves in long-term care facilities still face substantial discrimination in various forms. However, a proposed bill, authored by state Senator Scott Wiener, passed the Senate with a vote of 26-12 and will now head to the Assembly for a vote. The bill is also sponsored by Equality California, a non-profit civil rights organization advocating for the rights of … [Read more...] about Proposed Legislation in California Could Improve Safety of LGBTQ Seniors
Long Beach LGBTQ Estate Planning Lawyers Discuss Current Issues
In the not-so-distant past, Long Beach LGBTQ estate planning lawyers strongly encouraged gay and lesbian couples to create comprehensive estate plans because they were not allowed the same protections as heterosexual couples. Even considering the groundbreaking court decisions springing up across the country, it is still important for the LGBTQ community to consider the unique estate planning issues that they will likely face. In fact, estate planning for LGBTs may be even more … [Read more...] about Long Beach LGBTQ Estate Planning Lawyers Discuss Current Issues
Estate Planning for Gay Seniors
Not long ago, it was the case that estate planning attorneys strongly encouraged gay and lesbian couples to create comprehensive estate plans because they were not allowed the same protections as heterosexual couples. Now, in light of the groundbreaking Supreme Court decision in Obergefell v. Hodges, it may seem the worry is over. That is not necessarily the case, however. The reality is, estate planning is still important. Estate planning for Gay seniors may be even more … [Read more...] about Estate Planning for Gay Seniors
The Benefits of the Supreme Court Decision on Gay Marriage
Being legally married makes estate planning easier because of the automatic eligibility for most benefits that married couples enjoy. The LGBTQ community and other supporters of gay marriage are certainly pleased with the United States Supreme Court’s landmark ruling in Obergefell v. Hodges, which many feel has been a long time coming. As a result of this decision, millions of Americans are now eligible for legal rights they were previously unable to enjoy. Now, there are privileges and rights … [Read more...] about The Benefits of the Supreme Court Decision on Gay Marriage
Medical Decision Making for Gay Couples
It is easy for heterosexual married couples to take for granted many of their rights and privileges in our country. For example, there is no question that a husband can visit his wife in the hospital and make decisions regarding her medical care, if required. However, these same rights are not available to all gay couples. In 2014, only 32 states and the District of Columbia have legalized gay marriage. California joined this number in June of 2013. However, there are still obstacles to be … [Read more...] about Medical Decision Making for Gay Couples
What Is a Domestic Partnership Agreement?
The rights and privileges enjoyed by married couples across the country are typically assumed, and often taken for granted – when the couple is heterosexual. There is no debate that a husband has the right to visit his wife in the emergency room and make medical decisions for her, if necessary. These same rights and privileges cannot be assumed with same-sex couples. Though the movement for legalized gay marriage is well underway there are still some states that do not yet recognize gay … [Read more...] about What Is a Domestic Partnership Agreement?
Why Same Sex Couples Need an Estate Plan
While everyone can benefit in some way by having a comprehensive estate plan, the benefits may be even more important for same sex couples who are unable to legally marry. Marriage makes estate planning much simpler, because of the automatic eligibility for benefits that married couples have. However, when legal marriage is not an option, same sex couples need an estate plan for the future, in order to protect their loved ones. Estate planning issues for same sex couples Despite some of … [Read more...] about Why Same Sex Couples Need an Estate Plan
