Publications & Downloads
NCLR offers a wide range of online publications free of charge. If you have legal questions related to your sexual orientation or gender identity and don't find the answer to your questions in our publications, NCLR's helpline can help you find the answers.
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publications
Divorce for Same-Sex Couples Who Live in Non-Recognition States: A Guide For Attorneys
This publication explains laws that allow same-sex couples who cannot divorce in their home state to divorce in the state where they entered their union.
Top Ten Things You Should Know About DOMA and the U.S. Supreme Court
By December 3, the U.S. Supreme Court will likely decide whether or not to hear one or more cases challenging the constitutionality of Section 3 of the so-called Defense of Marriage Act. Here are a few key things to know while we wait for that announcement.
Relationship Recognition State Laws Summary
Read our fact sheet on state laws regarding same-sex couples.
California Transgender Family Law
A fact sheet for transgender spouses, partners, parents, and youth.
Frequently Asked Questions about the President’s Historic Decision to Stop Defending Discriminatory Federal Defense of Marriage Act
In February 2011, President Barack Obama has decided that the government should no longer defend Section 3 of the federal Defense of Marriage Act (DOMA), which discriminates against legally married same-sex couples by providing that the federal government will not recognize their marriages for any purpose.
SB 54 and Same-Sex Couples Who Marry Outside of California
Read our SB 54 FAQ on the rights of same-sex couples who marry outside the state.
Frequently Asked Questions About Marriage for Same-Sex Couples in California
Read our FAQ for same-sex couples who wish to get married in California and what the recent ruling on the Prop 8 federal challenge means for them.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Marriage Recognition for Same-Sex Couples in Maryland
Read our FAQ on the rights of same-sex couples who marry outside the state of Maryland.
Frequently Asked Questions About Marriage Equality in Washington D.C.
Read our FAQ on about marriage equality in Washington D.C.
Marriage, Domestic Partnerships, and Civil Unions: An overview of relationship recognition for same-sex couples Within the United States.
Transgender Persons and Marriage: The Importance of Legal Planning
Transgender people face unique legal issues with regard to marriage. Although marriage is not yet a legal option for lesbian, gay or bisexual people in all but one state, it is already an option - and a reality - for many who are transgender. This article summarizes the legal issues surrounding marriage for transgender people and suggests some ways that transgender persons can protect their marital relationships.
2004 General Accounting Office Study
This report, authored by the US General Accounting Office, concluded that there are now 1,138 federal rights and responsibilities automatically accorded to married spouses.
Canadian Marriage FAQ
What Do I Need to Know About Getting Married in Canada? A guide from GLAD.