Making It Legal

The ultimate guide to the past, present, and future of same-sex relationship laws in the U.S.

Same-sex relationships are treated differently under each state's laws, and nearly a quarter of the U.S. population lives in a state with some form of legal recognition for same-sex couples. More than 85,000 same-sex couples have entered a legal relationship since 1997.

Making It Legal is the only book that offers a comprehensive review of all the issues that influence the decision to marry, breaks down the complex and ever-changing rules of same-sex relationship laws. This book provides guidance on the important factors involved in the personal decision to marry along with the issues that every married couple may face:

• Is a pre-nup advisable? What does it involve?
• What happens when you want to file your taxes?
• When is a will or a living trust needed?
• What are the special needs of same-sex couples with kids?
• When should you turn to professionals for help during disagreements?
• How do you work with step-parents, past partners, and the blended family?

Nationally-recognized same-sex relationship law expert Attorney Frederick Hertz and Attorney Emily Doskow have written the ultimate guide to the ultimate decision -- whether to enter into a marriage or other legal relationship with your same-sex partner.

Since the first edition was published, numerous changes have taken place across the country. Some states have passed laws stating that they will acknowledge same-sex marriages from other states, even if they don’t have same-sex marriage. The 2nd edition is updated to account for these changes in state laws and projects additional changes likely to happen in the future.