Domestic Partnerships

In 2003, California Law recognized Registered Domestic Partnerships. Years later, few Family Law practices have tested these laws. Marcus Family Law Center has the highest level of commitment and dedication to ensuring that the first cases in this field do not get swept away by the court process. We help untangle this new area of law and defend your rights.

As not all states recognize domestic partnership and as this area of the law is still in flux, other protections for the families of same-sex couples are often necessary. Partners should consider entering into Advanced Healthcare Directives and Second Parent Adoptions. Marcus Family Law Center, PLC can advise you on how you can protect your family unit.

Since 2003, many new laws have been issued pertaining to the same-sex couple, including laws regarding how to file taxes, laws pertaining to property transfers between domestic partners, and in 2008 the law permitting Marriage between same-sex couples. The laws continue to change and evolve. Marcus Family Law Center is committed to staying current on all law changes in this area.

Registration - There are pros and cons to registering your domestic partnership with the state. Our legal team can explain both sides to you and help you make the best decision for your situation.

Dissolution of Domestic Partnership - We provide a full range of services for Dissolutions, including handling all issues of child custody/visitation, child/partner support, and property division. No matter how simple or complicated your case is, Marcus Family Law Center will work together with you to get your case resolved.

Mediation - If you and your partner have a sincere desire to settle your Dissolution without going to court, Marcus Family Law can be the mediator. We will meet with you to get background information and then sit down with both parties to come to a mutually agreeable resolution on all issues.

Settlement Agreements - If you and your partner come to an agreement, we will draw up a Settlement Agreement that meets the court's requirements for issuing a Judgment of Dissolution and protects your rights.

Pre-Partnership or Post-Partnership Agreements - If you and your future or current partner want to enter into a formal and legally binding agreement regarding any aspect of your family or your assets, we will help prepare your documents for you.

Partner Support - When you are going through a change in your family situation, money is the last thing you want to worry about. Whether you are in transition from a dual-income household to a single-income one, from being a stay-at-home parent to the sole breadwinner, from being responsible for supporting one household to being responsible for two, or simply have a change in your employment status after a Dissolution has been finalized, money worries can be all-encompassing and overwhelming.

Marcus Family Law Center can help assess your financial situation and determine if you are receiving or paying an appropriate level of support.

If you have an existing order for child, spousal, or partner support and are not receiving it, Marcus Family Law Center can help to enforce your order through the court system and get your payments back on track.