Since 2013, Dellino Family Law has been a strong advocate for marriage and relationship equality. We believe that every family—regardless of sexual or gender identity—deserves outstanding legal support.
Our Seattle LGBTQIA+ family lawyers are proud to serve individuals and families across Seattle and throughout Washington State.
LGBTQIA+ family law continues to evolve quickly at both the federal and state levels. Our team of Seattle non-traditional family lawyers is committed to staying up-to-date on these changes to provide informed and compassionate legal support.
Child Custody for Same-Sex Parents
Washington State applies custody laws equally to all married couples, regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity. Still, same-sex parents may encounter specific challenges when only one partner is a legal parent or when the couple never married.
Our firm is well-versed in protecting the parental rights of LGBTQIA+ families facing these situations.
Equal Custody Rights Under Washington Law
Since same-sex marriage became legal in 2012, same-sex and opposite-sex couples share equal custody rights under Washington law. Courts base custody decisions on the child’s best interests, not the parents’ gender or marital history.
Legal Challenges in Non-Married Families
Before marriage equality, many same-sex couples built families without legal protections. When one partner lacks legal parent status, custody questions can become complicated during a breakup.
An experienced attorney can assist in establishing legal recognition of a parent-child bond, even without formal biological or legal ties.
Creating Fair Parenting Plans
Same-sex parenting plans can involve special considerations that require thoughtful planning. Our team designs personalized parenting arrangements that safeguard both parents’ roles and promote long-term stability for the child.
We are committed to protecting and honoring the parental relationships of LGBTQIA+ families.
Divorce for Same-Sex Couples
Though the legal process for same-sex divorce mirrors that of opposite-sex couples, there may still be challenges due to relatively recent legal recognition. Our firm understands the emotional and legal difficulties that may arise and works to secure the best possible outcome.
Standard Legal Process
Same-sex marriages performed in Washington or elsewhere must be dissolved through standard divorce proceedings. Washington State does not differentiate between same-sex and opposite-sex couples in its divorce laws.
Unique Divorce Considerations
Because case law surrounding same-sex divorce is still developing, unique issues may arise. These can include property division from years before legal marriage or parental rights for non-biological parents.
Our Seattle LGBTQIA+ family lawyers have helped many same-sex couples face these challenges with clarity and care.
Domestic Partnerships
Before same-sex marriage became legal, many couples registered as domestic partners in Washington. These partnerships were automatically converted into marriages on June 30, 2014, unless formally dissolved beforehand.
If your domestic partnership was converted to marriage and you are now considering divorce, special legal factors may apply. Our team can help clarify your legal status and advise you on your options.
Committed Intimate Relationships
Washington State does not recognize “common law marriage,” but it does recognize something similar: committed intimate relationships. These are long-term, marriage-like partnerships without a legal marriage.
Courts may divide property and assign responsibilities based on the nature and duration of the relationship. If you believe your relationship qualifies, legal guidance is essential to protect your interests.
Adoptions
Adoption is a powerful way to grow your family, and LGBTQIA+ individuals and couples in Washington enjoy the same legal rights as anyone else. However, discrimination and legal hurdles can still make the process more challenging without experienced legal help.
Equal Adoption Rights in Washington
Washington law allows any competent adult aged 18 or older to adopt. LGBTQIA+ individuals, whether single or married, are fully qualified to adopt under RCW 26.33.140.
Same-sex couples can adopt jointly and may also pursue second-parent (co-parent) adoptions. This allows one partner to adopt the other’s biological or adopted child without terminating the first parent’s legal status.
Facing Discrimination and Matching
Although Washington law supports equal adoption rights, no law prevents birth parents from choosing adoptive families based on personal bias. This can make finding the right match harder for LGBTQIA+ individuals and couples.
Our attorneys are highly experienced in LGBTQIA+ adoption matters. We will help you face the system and advocate for your right to build your family.
Legal Representation for LGBTQIA+ Families
In addition to divorce, custody, and adoption matters, we support LGBTQIA+ individuals and couples with a full range of family law services. We understand the unique legal considerations you may face and are here to help you protect what matters most.
Additional Areas of Support
We provide a full range of legal services designed to meet the unique needs of the LGBTQIA+ community, including:
- Estate planning with wills, trusts, and powers of attorney
- Prenuptial and postnuptial agreements
- Property division and asset protection
Our team brings together legal expertise and cultural sensitivity to support you with professionalism, respect, and care.
Contact Our LGBTQIA+ Family Lawyers in Seattle Today
At Dellino Family Law, our Seattle LGBTQIA+ family lawyers are committed to providing inclusive, informed, and compassionate representation to LGBTQIA+ clients.
Whether you are struggling with separation, adoption, or long-term planning, we are here to support you every step of the way. Contact us today to schedule your consultation, or read our testimonials to find out why families continue to choose us.