Your Trusted Legal Partners For Same-Sex Divorce

At Hecht & Associates, LLC, we understand that the end of a marriage is a significant turning point for a same-sex couple, just as is the case for spouses in a traditional marriage. Issues such as the division of assets, spousal support, and child custody and support demand resolution regardless of the nature of your union.

With over two decades of experience in family law, our firm stands as a beacon of guidance and support for custody arrangements and more. Our lead attorney’s depth of experience ensures our knowledgeable and attentive legal approach in same-sex divorces.  From law offices in Rockville, Maryland, we serve people throughout and beyond Montgomery and Howard counties. We are here to help you navigate the complexities of same-sex divorce regardless of the complexities involved.

Legal Support For Divorcing Couples In The LGBTQ+ Community

Our firm’s dedication to your case will be evident from the first consultation to the final decree. Here’s what you can expect when you partner with us to accomplish your same-sex divorce:

• Meticulous attention to the division of marital assets for business owners or high-asset individuals, ensuring fairness and legality
• Sensitivity and determination in resolving child custody and support matters
• Proactive strategies to secure spousal support agreements that reflect your needs, ensuring your rights are protected whether you will pay or receive support

The decision to end marriage is never easy, but with Hecht & Associates, you have a team committed to easing the process. We offer a clear path forward for clients on this path, with legal solutions tailored to the unique aspects of your same-sex marriage. For example, if you were previously in a domestic relationship, we will determine which portion of your assets should be considered marital property. Our attorneys are well-versed in the nuances of same-sex divorce, bringing a thorough understanding of Maryland law to your case. We are:

• Highly skilled in the courtroom and adept in negotiations, particularly in high-conflict cases
• Aggressive in protecting our clients’ interests, whether through settlement negotiations or, when necessary, litigation
• Committed to helping you emerge from your divorce on sound footing

We help clients pursue favorable outcomes while fostering an environment of trust and optimism, drawn from our long history of handling high-stakes divorce and support cases.

While the legal framework for same-sex divorce mirrors that of other divorces, including matters of property division, alimony, and child custody, we recognize that each case carries its own personal and legal intricacies. Count on us to help you resolve any issues of note such as the following:

• Was either or both of you previously in a domestic partnership with shared assets?
• Did one of you adopt the other’s biological child?

No matter what the details of your case, our firm’s lawyers are ready to deliver the same caliber of advocacy and strategic planning that have defined our practice for years.

What Issues Are Decided In A Same-Sex Divorce?

When navigating a same-sex divorce in Maryland, it is important to understand the process, including the matters that you can address in the divorce process.

For the most part, same-sex couples can resolve the same legal issues other couples address in an absolute divorce (the term used in Maryland). Knowing about them can help you safeguard your rights. Here are the matters typically addressed and decided in a Maryland same-sex divorce:

• Child custody and visitation: Determining custody and visitation schedules is a primary concern for any couple. Both legal and physical custody must be decided, ensuring the best interests of the child are preserved.
• Child support: Establishing the financial responsibilities of each parent to support their children is another critical aspect. The court considers factors like income, child care expenses and the child’s needs.
• Property division: Equitable distribution of marital property, assets and debts is essential. Examples of marital property include real estate, bank accounts, investments and other assets accumulated during the marriage.
• Spousal support (alimony): One party may be entitled to spousal support or alimony, depending on factors such as the length of the marriage, the financial situation of each spouse and contributions to the household.

Some issues may not be fully resolved until after a same-sex absolute divorce is finalized, including:

• Enforcement of court orders: Ensuring compliance with custody, support and property division orders can sometimes require additional legal action.
• Modifications: Changes in circumstances, such as income changes or relocation, may require post-divorce modifications to custody, support or alimony agreements.

Dealing with divorce-related matters can be complex, and understanding your legal rights is essential. Each divorce is unique, and consulting with an experienced attorney can help ensure that all aspects of your divorce proceedings are handled fairly and effectively.

Maryland offers no-fault divorces to all couples, which allows spouses to sever the marriage based on mutual consent or a separation of 12 months or more. However, you may also cite fault-based grounds for divorce, such as adultery, desertion, cruelty or excessively vicious conduct.

Settling Outside The Courtroom: A Viable Option

We believe in the power of resolution outside the courtroom. When you choose Hecht & Associates, LLC, to represent you in your same-sex divorce, you can expect:

• A reasonable approach to negotiating settlement agreements.
• A willingness to fight for your rights in court if necessary.
• A strategic plan tailored to your unique situation and goals.

Although we are formidable advocates in trials, our firm recommends exploring avenues for out-of-court settlements when possible.

Your Post-Divorce Future Starts Here

Embarking on the path to a new beginning starts with a simple phone call. We invite you to reach out to us at 301-861-4797 or complete our online form to schedule a consultation.

Our attorneys are ready to stand by your side and fight for the future you deserve. With Hecht & Associates, your journey toward a well-executed resolution of your same-sex divorce is in skilled and trusted hands.