RSSchicago civil union attorneys - Chicago Illinois Family Law Blog
Same-Sex Households in Illinois Increased 40 Percent Between 2000 and 2010
The Chicago Tribune reports that the number of gay and lesbian households in the state has significantly increased during the past 10 years, a reflection of social changes making it easier for couples to be in a same-sex relationship openly.
According to data from the 2010 U.S. Census Bureau, the number of same-sex households in Illinois has increased by over 40 percent from 2000 to 2010. Interestingly, the numbers of these types of households were high in Chicago, as well as in the suburbs. For example, in Aurora, there was an 80 percent increase, with 463 same-sex households in 2010. In Chicago, there was a 25 percent increase, from 9,412 in 2000 to 11,715 in 2010.
Over 1,600 Civil Union Licenses Issued in Illinois During First Month of Law
Recently, Equality Illinois, an advocacy group for the LGBT community, announced that a total of 1,618 civil union licenses were issued across Illinois during the first month of the new civil union law, reports The Huffington Post. Civil unions became law on June 1. Of the state’s 102 counties, couples applied for civil unions in 83 of them, or about 80 percent.
According to Equality Illinois, each of the state’s county clerks was contacted to determine the total number of licenses issued. Each clerk was also asked for feedback regarding the implementation of the law, and the group reports many clerks shared stories of excitement, particularly on the first day the licenses were offered. The organization also noted that the civil unions, domestic partnerships, or marriages obtained by gay couples in another state or jurisdiction before civil unions became law are now valid civil unions in Illinois, making the total number of couples in a civil union far greater than 1,618.
Guidelines Released by Illinois Dept. of Insurance for Civil Union Spouses
On May 26, the Illinois Department of Insurance released information for insurance companies and consumers regarding the “Illinois Religious Freedom Protection and Civil Union Act,” which took effect on June 1. The Act permits unmarried adults in Illinois to enter into a civil union, and grants them much of the same legal rights that the law gives to married couples in the state.
On its website, http://www.insurance.illinois.gov, the Department published new information that explains the law’s impact on insurance coverage and benefits. A fact sheet for consumers contains frequently asked questions that cover such aspects of the new law as how to enroll a civil union spouse under an employer’s health plan. The Department also offers guidelines for Illinois insurance companies to help ensure that they comply with the new law and give policyholders information they need to know about the new law. Illinois residents with questions can visit the Department’s website or call one of the Department’s insurance experts at 866-445-5326.
Colorado Moves Toward Approving Civil Unions
According to CNN, the Colorado Senate recently approved a civil unions bill that would provide same-sex couples with many of the same rights already afforded to heterosexual couples. Senate Bill 172, which was approved by a 23-12 vote, would grant the right to share medical decisions, apply for family leave, and inherit property, among other rights, to same-sex couples in a civil union. The legislation now goes to the Colorado House.
Currently under Colorado law, only a man and a woman can be married. This bill would authorize two unmarried adults to enter into a civil union, regardless of their gender. Previously, in 2006, voters in Colorado rejected a domestic partnership measure.
Learning More about Civil Unions in Illinois
SB1716 (The Civil Unions Bill) will take effect in Illinois on June 1, 2011. However, besides making civil unions legal in the state, you may not know much beyond that. Thankfully, the Cook County Clerk has provided an overview of some of the highlights of the recently passed legislation.
Civil union licenses will be issued by all county clerks in the state, and will be available to both heterosexual and same-sex couples who are both at least 18-years-old. It is important to note that the clerk’s office will not perform civil union ceremonies. After a couple obtains a civil union license, they will be required to wait until the next day to have the union “solemnized” by an officiant, such as a religious official or judge. A couple will then have up to 60 days to return their civil union license to their issuing clerk as proof of their union. To end a civil union, it must be dissolved in court like divorce, rather than simply notifying a local county clerk.
We are proud sponsors of Little Black Pearl Art and Design Center.
To learn more, click here.
Proud Member of Friends of the Chicago River.
To learn more, click here.
Client Reviews
5 Leslie has been the strongest representation I could ask for
Leslie has been the strongest representation I could ask for in a very complicated, emotional matter. She has continuously looked out for my best interest and the best interest of my son. She is always prompt in getting back to me and in keeping me well informed about my case.
Read More Client Reviews
