Florida Estate Planning Lawyer Blog
Raising and caring for your children is difficult enough without the additional complications that arise when you are bringing up children in a same-sex relationship. Inherent rights afforded to “straight” or heterosexual couples are non-existent for gay couples. The lack of legal rights for those in relationships not recognized by the State of Florida, will effect your property rights, your health care decisions, the distribution of your assets after death, and most importantly, your children.
If you are not the legally recognized or biological parent of a child, there are several legal documents you can utilize to provide you the authority you need.
A Last Will and Testament will enable you to name your choice of guardian for your minor child in the event of your death or incapacity.
A Pre-Need Guardian Designation lends additional proof of your choice of guardian for your child(ren).
An Authorization and Power of Attorney for Child Care will enable the person of your choice to have the authority to make decisions for and care for your children when you are unavailable. Unavailable may mean incapacity, or being out of town, or otherwise engaged elsewhere.
For additional documents and methods of ensuring that the “non-legal” parent’s relationship with his or her children are protected, contact a Jacksonville Gay and Lesbian Estate Planning Lawyer to schedule a time to talk.