Two women who married in Massachusetts but later relocated to Texas will not be allowed to divorce in Texas, in large part due to the efforts of Attorney General Greg Abbott.

Because Texas does not recognize or legalize same-sex marriage, Abbot says the state does not have legal authority to grant a divorce, and that doing so is a violation of the state’s constitution.

State District Judge Scott Jenkins granted the couple a divorce, but Abbott filed a petition denouncing such action. He claims a divorce judgment contradicts the Texas constitution, which bars gay and lesbian marriages. He feels intervening with the couple’s divorce is necessary in order to defend the constitution.

This case poses a serious question to gay and lesbian couples who get married in states that have legalized same-sex marriage, such as Massachusetts, but then move to states that do not recognize gay and lesbian marriage. If you have found yourself in a similar situation and you are currently living in California, you should speak with an attorney at the Law Offices of Michael R. Young about your legal options. Although California does not recognize same-sex marriage, we can make sure important issues are properly addressed, such as child custody, child support, alimony, and property division.

To arrange a consultation with an experienced Riverside family law attorney, please  contact the office today by calling (866) 902-5290!