Contact the San Francisco Bay area family law attorney Melinda Sammis at 415-868-3291.

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Minimizing the emotional and financial stress of divorce and other family law matters.

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Same-Sex Relationship Issues

The laws about same-sex relationships have changed dramatically in a very short period of time. Our attorneys provide same-sex couples and individuals in the LGBT community with legal counsel and representation involving:

  • Divorce and property division
  • Cohabitation and premarital agreements
  • Child custody disputes
  • Visitation and parenting plans
  • Child support and spousal/partner support issues
  • Paternity disputes
  • Stepparent rights

Navigating Child Custody And Child Support

For same-sex couples and opposite-sex couples alike, child custody can be affected when one parent is a child’s biological parent and the other is not. The court will consider a range of factors when deciding who is responsible for raising and supporting a child after his or her parents divorce, but the biological relationship you and your child’s other parent have to your child should not be overlooked. For the nonbiological parent, this can make it more difficult to assert your rights as a parent.

However, this issue is notably less complicated in cases where the parents were married when your child was born. In California, both partners are considered legal parents regardless of your biological relationship to the child. But when a child is born or adopted outside of a marriage, determining custody and support obligations can be significantly more complicated for all parties.

No matter your family history, we will help you assert your parental rights and maintain the relationship you seek with your child, as well as ensure that his or her financial needs are met.

Attorney Melinda Sammis has worked as an adviser to The State Bar of California’s Executive Committee on Family Law (FLEXCOM). She has a thorough understanding of the state’s complex laws and how they apply to couples in same-sex relationships.

Get Family Law Guidance Today

The best way to achieve your legal goals is to speak with an attorney who understands your needs and perspective. At Sammis Family Law, we have significant experience working with the unique legal issues faced by LGBT individuals, same-sex couples and their families.

To schedule an appointment with Ms. Sammis, call 415-868-3291 or contact the office online.