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Same-Sex Divorce HANDLING CASES FROM START TO FINISH

Dutchess County
Same-Sex Divorce Lawyer

Get a Compassionate Legal Team on Your Side in Du

On June 24th, 2011, New York became the sixth state in the country to legalize gay marriage with the enactment of the Marriage Equality Act. In addition to allowing gay and lesbian couples to be married, this act brought with it the ability for same-sex couples to divorce. A same-sex divorce is treated the same as any other divorce in the eyes of the law, and can be an equally emotional experience. If you are looking to dissolve your same-sex marriage, a highly knowledgeable Dutchess County LGBTQ divorce attorney from the Law Office of Dennis R. Vetrano, Jr., LLC can walk you through the process and protect your rights every step of the way.

Our firm is proud to support the New York LGBTQ community and can provide the compassionate representation you need during this difficult time. With more than 170 collective years of dedicated legal experience, we understand the intricacies of divorce inside and out and are prepared to make every effort to help you pursue an amicable solution to your marital separation.

Retain the legal representation you deserve. Call our Dutchess County same-sex divorce lawyers at (845) 605-4330 today. Contact us online too!

Commonly Asked Questions

What are the grounds for a same-sex divorce in Dutchess County?

In Dutchess County, same-sex couples can file for divorce on the grounds of irreconcilable differences, as New York is a no-fault divorce state. This means that you do not need to provide specific reasons for the divorce.

How is property divided in a same-sex divorce?

Property division in a same-sex divorce follows the principle of equitable distribution. This means that marital property will be divided fairly, but not necessarily equally. Factors considered include the length of the marriage, each spouse's financial situation, and contributions to the marriage.

Can same-sex couples adopt children during or after a divorce?

Yes, same-sex couples can adopt children during or after a divorce, provided they meet the legal requirements for adoption in New York. The process may involve additional legal considerations, especially if one partner is the biological parent.

What should I do if my spouse and I cannot agree on divorce terms?

If you and your spouse cannot reach an agreement on the terms of your divorce, you may need to pursue litigation. This involves presenting your case in court, where a judge will make decisions regarding property division, custody, and other issues.

Are there specific legal protections for same-sex couples during divorce proceedings?

Yes, same-sex couples have the same legal protections as opposite-sex couples during divorce proceedings in New York. This includes rights related to property division, spousal support, and child custody.

What Happens During a Same-Sex Divorce?

Since New York is a no-fault state, same-sex couples can cite “irreconcilable differences” to commence the divorce process and are not required to have a specific reason. The only relevant requirement for divorce is that at least one of the spouses must have lived in New York for a minimum of one year (along with other factors). Once divorce papers are filed, same-sex couples must sort out the terms of their divorce agreement through either collaborative or contested means, just like a traditional union.

Separating spouses must solve the following issues:

If both spouses are able to agree on an acceptable arrangement, a judge will finalize their separation. If a couple cannot agree on an arrangement, litigation will be required. Once both sides have been given sufficient opportunity to plead their case, a judge will issue a decision that carries the enforceability of law. Like any other divorce, same-sex divorces can require extensive negotiation and should be handled by an experienced attorney.

Understanding the Unique Challenges of Same-Sex Divorce in NY

Every divorce presents its own set of challenges, but same-sex couples may face additional complexities rooted in legal, emotional, and social factors. At the Law Office of Dennis R. Vetrano, Jr., LLC, we recognize the unique circumstances that can arise during a same-sex divorce and are committed to providing tailored support to navigate these intricacies.

Some common challenges include:

  • Legal Recognition: Depending on when and where your marriage took place, there may be varying degrees of legal recognition that can impact your divorce proceedings.
  • Child Custody and Adoption Issues: If children are involved, it’s essential to address custody arrangements and parental rights, which can be more complicated for same-sex couples.
  • Asset Division: Determining the division of shared assets can be complex, especially if one partner has significantly more financial resources or if assets were acquired before the marriage.
  • Emotional Support: The emotional toll of divorce can be heightened for same-sex couples, making it vital to have a compassionate legal team that understands your needs.

Our experienced attorneys are here to listen, guide, and advocate for your best interests every step of the way. We believe that informed clients are empowered clients, and we strive to provide you with the knowledge and resources needed to make sound decisions during this challenging time.

Begin Your Same-Sex Divorce Process in NY with a Consultation

Nobody should have to go through a divorce alone. At the Law Office of Dennis R. Vetrano, Jr., LLC, our Hudson Valley same-sex divorce lawyers understand how emotionally taxing this experience can be, and we are willing to go the distance on your behalf. Having earned a 2015 Avvo Clients’ Choice Award for our unparalleled advocacy, our attorneys can provide the kindhearted and skillful advocacy you need to help you pursue a positive outcome for your separation.

A consultation with our Dutchess County same-sex divorce lawyer is the first step to your new beginning. Schedule yours today!

CLIENT TESTIMONIALS

READ WHAT PAST CLIENTS HAD TO SAY
    "Using the Law Office of Dennis R. Vetrano to handle my divorce was the best decision I could have made."

    I want to say that using the Law Office of Dennis R. Vetrano to handle my divorce was the best decision I could have made. Kristen explained everything up front in terms that I could understand, and she put me at ease from the moment we met. Erika kept me abreast of everything that was happening throughout the whole process. She answered all my questions quickly and again in a way that I could understand. I would recommend the Law Office of Dennis R. Vetrano to anyone.

    - David B.
    "Unfortunately some of the hardest times in our lives we need an attorney to help guide us through such emotional and uncertain and scary period"
    Unfortunately some of the hardest times in our lives we need an attorney to help guide us through such emotional and uncertain and scary period. Choosing the best attorney can take away some of the fear and anxiety Dennis and his absolutely amazing team have held my hand and calmed my nerves on more than one occasion Stacey is always on the other end of the phone to reassure me that it is a process and it will be ok.I have found such comfort in Dennis his knowledge and strong confidence that he and his team have it all under control allows me to focus on myself and my children while they handle my case. I highly recommend this firm!
    - Jennifer Garofolo
    "I am extremely thankful for having received the best representation from my attorney Kristen D. Farris for a temporary order of protection case against my soon to be ex-husband."

    I am extremely thankful for having received the best representation from my attorney Kristen D. Farris for a temporary order of protection case against my soon to be ex-husband. Everything went so smooth with her amazing expertise and professionalism. In the court, she took charge right away and everything was just so well. I was so relieved! The outcome of the case was perfect and the case settled without any issues. I had no chance to stress! Finally, the office staff was so friendly and the communication, which was mostly through e-mail, was perfect. I am looking forward to working with Kristen with the next steps of getting a divorce. God answered my prayer when I asked for a great attorney :) I was so nervous but thankfully everything went so well!!!

    - Rosa Gonzalez
    "Kristen and Erika were wonderful to work with. Very professional, yet compassionate. They thoroughly explained everything in understandable terms."

    Kristen and Erika were wonderful to work with. Very professional, yet compassionate. They thoroughly explained everything in understandable terms. Both Kristen and Erika were prompt in all communications and kept me informed throughout.

    - Rebecca T.
    "Tough, gracious, generous, and committed describe Kristen’s qualities as my attorney."

    Tough, gracious, generous, and committed describe Kristen’s qualities as my attorney. And much thanks to the paralegal team as well. Their combined experience provided prompt support whenever I had any questions and helped talk me through my situation and to provide clarity. I can’t thank Kristen and her team enough for the all hard work and kindness through the process.

    - T. Curtis-Verderosa
    "Christal Prinz is OUTSTANDING! She has compassion and a wealth of knowledge about the law."

    Christal Prinz is OUTSTANDING! She has compassion and a wealth of knowledge about the law. She has a good common-sense approach as well. It was a delight to work with her considering the circumstances and nuances of my case and the law.

    - A.P.
    "I am so thankful I found this law office to handle my divorce. Kristen was a pleasure to deal with and handled my divorce flawlessly. Communication was always very fast, and always very clear."

    I am so thankful I found this law office to handle my divorce. Kristen was a pleasure to deal with and handled my divorce flawlessly. Communication was always very fast, and always very clear. I highly recommend! Couldn’t have been handled better. Thank you.

    - Claudia Franciosa
    "The guidance and knowledge they provided was immeasurable."
    I am so grateful for the wonderful team that assisted me through one of the most difficult times of my life. The guidance and knowledge they provided was immeasurable.
    - Jessica Conklin

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