On June 26, 2015, The U.S. Supreme Court ruled on a decision millions of
Americans have been anxiously awaiting for months, years, or, for some,
even decades. In the split 5-4 decision, the court ruled that same-sex
marriage was guaranteed by the Constitution, effectively legalizing gay
marriage nationwide.
The decision is being hailed as a landmark civil rights victory and has
sparked widespread celebration in LGBT communities across the country.
Justice Anthony Kennedy wrote at length on the majority's behalf following
the decision. "Their [same-sex couples] hope is not to be condemned
to live in loneliness, excluded from one of civilization's oldest
institutions," Kennedy wrote. "They ask for equal dignity in
the eyes of the law. The Constitution grants them that right."
Shortly following the decision, President Obama also gave an emotional
response to the decision, calling it a "victory for America."
He also recognized the long road LGBT activists and organizers have faced
over the years in their fight for recognition, noting that often social
progress occurs in increments—but that justice can also arrive "like
a thunderbolt."
What the Decision Means for Colorado
Same-sex couples have been able to marry in Colorado since October 2014,
but that was a state government decision, not a federal one. The new Supreme
Court ruling now gives married same-sex couples access to federal benefits,
such as Social Security benefits, estate tax benefits, and federal employment
and military benefits, among others.
At
The Samuelson Law Firm, I have been offering Colorado Springs individuals, couples, and families
the counsel they needed to navigate their family law or divorce matter
for almost two decades. In light of The Supreme Court's decision,
my firm is now excited to even further extend its family law services
to the benefit all married couples and individuals in our community.
If you are facing a
family law or
divorce matter, ensure that your Colorado Springs family law attorney is capable
of protecting your interests.
Contact my firm today.