What You Need to Know About Co-Parent Adoption
Co-parent adoption is a legal process in which an individual seeks to adopt the child of their partner or spouse, who is not the biological parent of the child. This process is typically used by same-sex couples, unmarried couples, or couples who have used alternative means of conception, such as egg donor or donor embryo.... Read More
Don’t Underestimate The Importance of Estate Planning
No one likes to think about their own mortality, but it is important to be prepared for the inevitable. Estate planning is the process of making arrangements for the transfer of one’s assets and property after death. Many people think that estate planning is only for the wealthy, but that is not the case. Everyone,... Read More
Same-Sex Divorce Can Be Uniquely Challenging
Same-sex couples face particular challenges in divorce that are unique to their situation. While divorcing a spouse is never easy, divorcing a same-sex partner can be even more complicated due to a lack of legal precedent, social stigma, and discrimination. As a result, it is essential to have the support of an experienced same-sex divorce... Read More
Donor Agreements: Protecting Your LGBTQ Family
When growing your LGBTQ family, there are many considerations and steps to take. One important aspect is creating a donation agreement. This agreement outlines the expectations and responsibilities of both the donor and the intended parents. It is important to work with a reputable LGBTQ family law firm in Chicago who can help guide you... Read More
How to Navigate the Illinois Probate Process
Losing a loved one takes an emotional and financial toll on family members. Having to navigate through the complicated probate process during this time makes it all the more difficult. Working with a seasoned probate attorney can help reduce some of the stress and confusion that families experience when dealing with probate cases. What is... Read More
Is LGBTQ Adoption Legal for Couples and Individuals?
In honor of National Adoption Month, November is the perfect time to look at how LGBTQ individuals and couples may be encouraged to adopt. With so many children in need of adoptive families all over the world, adoption is a truly loving way to grow your family. Adopted children can be made to feel extra... Read More
How Can an LGBT Estate Planning Lawyer in Chicago Help You?
Estate planning is extremely important, yet can be very tricky. There are a lot of moving parts that must be dealt with in order for your plan to be complete. Working on your estate alone can put you at a great disadvantage, as you may not know all the steps you have to take. With... Read More
Legal Protections for LGBTQ Individuals & Gay Marriage
As of December 13, 2022, the Respect for Marriage Act enshrining same-sex marriage into the US Consitution, was passed to provide legal protection nationwide. This long-awaited legislation offers federal protections for same-sex couples across the country. Prior to this past December, the laws protecting the LGBTQ community were as confusing as they were varied, differing... Read More
Are all the details of your Illinois estate plan private? Maybe.
On behalf of Jill Metz Are you ever surprised or amazed by what you can find on the Internet? From viewing bizarre photos, to finding a school classmate to stumbling across products only the makers can explain: It seems there is no end to the information that Google and other search engines can provide. For people... Read More
Happy New Year from Jill
A MESSAGE FROM JILL METZ Progress continues as the remarkable momentum for marriage equality has grown such that 35 states now recognize marriage for same-sex couples. In 2013, 34% of Americans lived in marriage equality states. As we start 2015, 70% of Americans live in marriage equality states. Last year brought the most significant nondiscrimination... Read More