South Bend LGBTQ+ Family Law Attorney

For LGBTQ+ individuals in South Bend, Indianapolis and throughout Indiana, family law matters can present unique complexities that require compassionate legal guidance. At Longstreet Law LLC, I understand the challenges faced by the LGBTQ+ community.

I’m Laura Longstreet, a Hoosier native, and with over a decade of experience, I am a good listener who provides welcoming support to families from all walks of life.

What Family Law Issues Can An LGBTQ+ Divorce Lawyer Assist With?

When faced with family law issues in a same-sex marriage in Indiana, you need a lawyer who understands the nuances of the law. As an LGBTQ+ family law attorney, I can assist you with various issues, such as:

• LGBTQ+ parental rights and same-sex adoption: Establishing nonbiological parent rights is critical. I can assist you with matters related to second-parent adoption, same-sex couple adoption and stepparent adoption, including securing a birth certificate for same-sex parents to ensure both parents are legally recognized.
• Property division in same-sex divorce: For same-sex couples, property acquired during cohabitation before the date of marriage can be a point of contention. I can address issues like equitable distribution in Indiana to pursue a fair outcome.
• Child custody for same-sex couples: Indiana law focuses on the child’s best interests for custody matters. If you are a nonbiological parent, I can help protect your rights, especially if parentage was not established through adoption.
• Other LGBTQ+ family law matters: I also assist with spousal support, cohabitation agreements, assisted reproductive technology (ART) and surrogacy agreements, a legal name change, birth certificate amendment, a gender marker change, a court order for name change and securing legal rights for transgender individuals.

I can also serve as a guardian ad litem to represent a child’s best interests in contested custody cases, providing another layer of support for your family.

What Makes Same-Sex Divorce Especially Complex?

The LGBTQ+ community can face issues during divorce due to the history of their relationships. Many couples were together for years before they could legally marry. This can complicate the division of marital assets and spousal maintenance, as the court must determine when the relationship’s “marital” period truly began. For couples who utilized ART, the question of who would get the frozen embryos or other genetic material can be a complex issue that requires a specific court order.

While Indiana went from no recognition to full marriage equality, many same-sex couples in other states entered into civil unions. A civil union dissolution is the legal process to end those relationships. For same-sex couples who entered into a civil union in another state and have since moved to Indiana, the courts will recognize your union as a marriage for the purposes of a divorce. The legal issues involved will be handled under Indiana’s divorce laws.

Further, because the legal recognition of same-sex marriage is relatively recent, the passage of new laws may affect how divorce is handled. These laws could affect everything from how a judge views cohabitation agreements to the rights of a nonbiological parent. Having an LGBTQ+ family law attorney who is up to date on legislative changes is vital.

A Fierce Advocate For The LGBTQ+ Community

I am committed to being a fierce advocate for the LGBTQ+ community. As an LGBTQ+ family law attorney, I am proud to be an ally and a resource for individuals and families in Indiana. My goal is to create a safe space where you can discuss your concerns without fear of judgment. I believe in helping all families build a secure future, and I bring compassion, understanding and vast knowledge to every case. I will help you navigate the law and protect your rights, no matter how complex your situation may be.

Get The Legal Support You Deserve

Taking informed action for your LGBTQ+ family law matter is essential. I am ready to help both South Bend and Indianapolis families, and I can provide the guidance you need. Reach out to me via 574-208-5982 or complete this online form to arrange a consultation. My phone line is answered at all times.