Strength Of A Giant, Heart Of A Neighbor – Your San Antonio Law Allies
Helping Same-Sex Couples With Family Law Issues In San Antonio
At Sralla Family Law PLLC, we offer a wide range of family law services to same-sex couples in San Antonio. We understand the complexities LGBTQ+ couples face when confronted with family law issues. We take the time to get to know our clients, understand their unique situations, and strategize to come up with customized solutions to their legal issues.
Whatever matter you are facing, we want you to feel comfortable and supported here. Contact our law office today to find out how we can help. We are located just east of downtown San Antonio in the Highland Park neighborhood. We are available to meet virtually, as well.
Same-Sex Family Law Services
When it comes to legal considerations for same-sex couples with children in Texas, here are some important points:
Parental Rights and Adoption
Married same-sex couples enjoy the same legal rights and responsibilities as opposite-sex couples, including parental rights, as detailed in the Texas Family Code.
As a stepparent, your partner does not automatically have parental rights regarding your biological children. If you have been with your partner for longer than 6 months and the child/children have lived with you for at least that long, your partner may be eligible to adopt your child/children.
You and your partner will undergo a home study and complete a criminal background check as part of the adoption approval process.
Formal adoption can help establish legal parental rights and responsibilities. We help clients through many types of adoptions, including second parent adoptions, stepparent adoptions, relative adoptions, and more.
Marriage and Legal Recognition
Same-sex marriage has been legal in Texas since the U.S. Supreme Court’s ruling in Obergefell v. Hodges in 2015.
Same-sex couples are not immune to divorce. We represent clients in same-sex divorce cases, keeping their unique needs and family dynamics in mind. If you and your spouse have children together, we can help you understand your child custody options and protect your parental rights.
Tax Considerations
Same-sex couples who are legally married can file joint federal tax returns. Consult a tax professional to understand the implications of joint filing and other tax considerations.
Healthcare and Medical Decisions
Designate each other as healthcare proxies or have medical power of attorney to make medical decisions for one another in the event that either of you becomes incapacitated.
It is important to ensure that your children’s healthcare providers recognize both parents’ rights.
Estate Planning and Wills
It is important to create wills and estate plans that protect your assets and ensure your children are provided for.
You may wish to consider naming each other as beneficiaries under any life and insurance policies.
Schedule A Consultation Today
Remember that legal advice is specific to individual circumstances, so consulting with an experienced family law attorney who understands LGBTQ+ rights is essential. Sralla Family Law PLLC can provide personalized guidance based on your situation.
Call or text us now for a consultation at (210) 212-5656(210) 212-5656.