Gay marriage became legal in Florida a year ago, which is causing some Floridians to look back, and to look forward, at the impact on Florida communities and marriage itself. Hundreds of same-sex couples have been married in Florida over the past year. While the number of sex-sex marriages is not officially tracked in Florida, state records reveal that the number of marriage licenses in Florida has risen sharply over the past year. Overall, for the first nine months of 2015, marriage licenses were up over 10 percent.
Gay marriage becoming legal in Florida has meant different things to different people. For some, it has established normalcy, while other it means more recognized legal rights such as the ability to make and guide medical decisions for their partners. In some instances, it has also provided peace of mind and financial security.
In addition, one study found that one in four same-sex couples that are married are raising children. Thus, gay marriage becoming legal has also had an impact on those personal, emotional, and legal relationships. For example, married same-sex couples with children are currently fighting to ensure that families with two mothers have both mothers listed on the child’s birth certificate. Currently, the biological mother alone is listed on the birth certificate.
Families are always changing, which is why it is important to understand how family law can help when difficult circumstances arise. The law is a valuable resource that can assist individuals and families through important family law issues, including marriages, divorces and the growth and changes of families.
Source: Orlando Sentinel, “Gay marriage in Florida one year later: Lots of weddings,” Rene Stutzman, Jan. 11, 2016