Adoptions
As the old saying goes, “First comes love, then comes marriage, then comes ….” Since the July 24, 2011 legitimatization of same-sex marriages in New York, Domestic Relations Law §10-a, it is important that same-sex couples contemplate whether or not to adopt. As with other couples, draconian consequences pertaining to visitation and custody could befall the non-birth parent should the marriage end up in divorce. Adoption forms and the laws pertaining to adoptions can be overwhelming and confusing. At Doniger & Engstrand, we can provide professional assistance to second parent adoptions. By adopting, the non-birth parent will be assured that his/her parental rights will continue should the marriage end in divorce.