Yes, same-sex couples can legally change their last names after getting married, just like opposite-sex couples. The process for changing one’s name is the same for all married individuals in California.

Yes, same-sex couples are entitled to the same legal rights, benefits, and protections as opposite-sex couples in California, including in areas such as taxation, healthcare, inheritance, and family law matters.

Did you know over 90% of divorce cases in Los Angeles settle out of family court ? This surprising fact points to the powerful role that Los Angeles divorce mediation now plays in shaping fair, efficient, and less stressful outcomes for families. If you’re facing a difficult time navigating separation, discover how mediation services could […]Continue reading

Did you know that nearly 70% of family law cases in Los Angeles now reach an agreement through mediation instead of court? If you’re struggling with a divorce case, child custody, or related issues, family law mediation Los Angeles could be your most effective route to a smoother, less stressful resolution. In this comprehensive guide, […]Continue reading

Yes, same-sex couples have the same rights and opportunities to adopt children together as opposite-sex couples in California. The adoption process and requirements are the same for all couples, regardless of sexual orientation.

Yes, same-sex couples have access to assisted reproductive technologies, such as in vitro fertilization (IVF), and surrogacy in California. The laws governing these processes apply to all couples, regardless of sexual orientation.

Yes, same-sex couples are entitled to spousal support or alimony if they meet the legal requirements for such support, just like opposite-sex couples. The court considers various statutory factors to determine the amount and duration of spousal support.

Yes, same-sex married couples can file joint tax returns in California, enjoying the same tax benefits and obligations as opposite-sex married couples at the federal and state levels.

Yes, same-sex couples can access family court in California for matters like child custody, visitation, and child support, just like opposite-sex couples. The court’s decisions are based on the best interests of the child.

Yes, same-sex couples can divorce in California through the same legal processes available to opposite-sex couples. The dissolution of a same-sex marriage follows the same rules and procedures as opposite-sex marriages.

Yes, same-sex couples who are legally married in California are entitled to community property rights, which means that assets acquired during the marriage are generally considered community property and subject to equal division upon divorce or separation.

Yes, same-sex couples can protect their rights and interests through Prenuptial Agreements, also known as Premarital Agreements, which allow them to specify and designate the division of property, spousal support, and other matters in the event of divorce or separation.

California no longer offers domestic partnership registration for same-sex couples since same-sex marriage became legal. Couples already registered as domestic partners can choose to convert their partnership to a marriage.

No, in California, couples cannot have both a marriage and a domestic partnership. Same-sex couples can choose to dissolve their domestic partnership if they decide to get married.

No, same-sex marriages in California are subject to the same legal rights, obligations, and limitations as opposite-sex marriages. There are no specific limitations or restrictions based on the gender or sexual orientation of the spouses.

Yes, religious organizations are protected by the First Amendment and have the freedom to refuse to perform same-sex marriages based on their religious beliefs. However, same-sex couples have the right to find a religious organization that is willing to officiate their marriage.

Yes, same-sex marriages can be annulled in California under specific circumstances, such as fraud, incapacity, or incest. The legal grounds for annulment are the same for both same-sex and opposite-sex marriages.

Yes, if one spouse in a same-sex marriage transitions their gender identity, the marriage can still be legally recognized in California. The legal gender transition of one spouse does not invalidate the marriage.

No, common-law marriages are not recognized in California, regardless of the gender or sexual orientation of the couple. To be legally married, couples must go through the formal process of obtaining a marriage license and having a ceremony.

Yes, same-sex married couples are entitled to receive survivor benefits from Social Security if they meet the eligibility requirements, just like opposite-sex married couples. The gender or sexual orientation of the spouses does not impact this entitlement.

Yes, same sex married couples have access to marital privilege, which means that they are generally protected from testifying against each other in legal proceedings. The marital privilege applies to all legally married couples, regardless of gender or sexual orientation.

Yes, same-sex couples can obtain a marriage license in any county in California, and the license is valid throughout the state. The process and requirements for obtaining a marriage license are the same for all couples, irrespective of sexual orientation.

Domestic violence under California law includes any abuse or threats of abuse between individuals who are in a close relationship, such as spouses, former spouses, cohabitants, or individuals who have a child together

Domestic violence can encompass various behaviors, including physical abuse (such as hitting, pushing, or choking), emotional abuse, sexual abuse, stalking, harassment, and threats of violence.

Victims of domestic violence can take several steps to protect themselves, including seeking a restraining order, contacting law enforcement, finding a safe place to stay, and accessing support services from domestic violence organizations.

Yes, domestic violence victims can obtain a restraining order, also known as a protective order, which restricts the abuser from having contact with the victim and may provide other forms of protection.

To apply for a restraining order in California, a person can go to their local courthouse and request the necessary forms from the clerk’s office. They will need to complete the forms and present them to a judge for review. They can also request the assistance from the court facilitator to complete the court forms […]Continue reading

Yes, in cases of immediate danger, an emergency protective order (EPO) can be issued by a law enforcement officer or a judge outside of regular court hours.

Violating a restraining order is a criminal offense in California. The consequences may include arrest, fines, and potential jail time for the offender.

Yes, as part of the legal process, a person facing domestic violence charges (if found to be the perpetrator of the domestic violence) may be ordered by the court to attend counseling or Domestic Violence Prevention Intervention programs to address their behavior.