LGBTQ Family Law Attorneys: Everyone Deserves Experienced Representation
Last updated on February 14, 2024
When the U.S. Supreme Court recognized the right of people in Texas and the rest of the country to get married regardless of their gender and sexual orientation, it was a historical moment. For the first time in history, members of Texas’ LGBTQ community could marry whomever they wished. Today, they enjoy the same legal marriage rights as everybody else.
At Soulsby Law, we are proud to provide experienced and compassionate family law representation to San Antonio’s LGBTQ community.
What are the fertility options for LGBTQ couples?
There are plenty of options available for same-sex couples who want to start a family. They include the following:
• Adoption
• Artificial insemination with a sperm donor
• Fostering a child
• Gestational surrogacy with egg donation
• In-utero insemination or IUI using donor sperm
• In-vitro fertilization or IVF using a gestational surrogate using an egg donor, sperm donor, or embryo donor
• Reciprocal IVF with one partner carrying the baby while the other donates an egg
What if both partners want a genetic connection to the child?
Some LGBTQ couples are perfectly fine with adopting a child who needs a stable, loving home. However, some might prefer to have a child they can say is biologically theirs. LGBTQ family law allows for one parent to donate an egg or sperm while the other has a close relative donate as well. For example, if a gay couple wanted a child and one partner donated sperm, the other partner’s sister could donate an egg. The couple could have an embryo created and then hire a gestational surrogate who could carry their baby. This would give both partners the chance to have a child that is genetically connected to both of them.
Seeing a fertility specialist is a good option for some couples as well. Transgender people might want to look into potential options for fertility if they prefer having a child who’s genetically theirs.
How does asset division work in LGBTQ divorces?
Because legal same-sex marriage is relatively new, couples that have lived together for decades may only have been legally married for a few years. This situation can complicate the division of assets since the court typically only divides assets acquired during the legal marriage.
A prenuptial or postnuptial agreement can benefit same-sex spouses as they begin their married life together. This document will designate assets owned by the individuals before the relationship and help create a fair division.
Guidance Through Adoption
Adoption can be complex legal proceeding. If you are adopting your spouse’s biological children, or the two of you are adopting a child together, we can help guide you through the process.
Full-Service Divorce Attorney For LGBTQ Clients
We will work closely with you to understand your individual needs and base our strategy accordingly. Turn to us for practical advice and proven negotiation and trial skills related to:
- Property division
- Spousal support – commonly known as alimony
- Child custody and visitation rights
- Child support
Child custody and visitation may be especially complex matters in cases where one spouse is the children’s biological parent, and the other spouse never formally adopted the children. The nonbiological parent may struggle to establish parental rights. At Soulsby Law, we will work hard to reach a child custody and support order that is in the best interests of your children.
While LGBTQ divorce is generally the same as dissolving a heterosexual marriage, there may be unique aspects to your case that require the attention of a divorce lawyer who regularly handles such legal issues.
As your attorney, Kate Soulsby will personally take care of everything you need to complete your divorce process the right way. We also provide other family law services.
Discuss Your Legal Needs With An Experienced Attorney
Call our San Antonio office at 210-714-4830 or email us to schedule a free initial consultation with attorney Kate Soulsby.