In Chicago and across the U.S., same-sex marriage is becoming a reality for many. In some Chicago counties, same-sex couples have been able to legally marry before same-sex marriage is set to be widely legalized in the state. As same-sex marriage is becoming more common, same-sex divorce is also a reality that many are now facing. While some couples may be celebrating legalized marriage, others may be facing the complex family law issues that come with divorce.
For example, one celebrity same-sex couple is in the process of getting a divorce. Chicago residents who kept up with the Winter Olympics in Sochi may remember Johnny Weir, the figuring skating star. According to reports, Weir and his husband decided to call it quits recently. The decision to divorce came shortly after charges of domestic abuse charges were filed by his husband, in which he claimed that Weir had bitten him during a disagreement. He requested the charges to be dismissed — a request that was granted.
In addition to the domestic violence charges, some speculate — because of a quote given by Weir to a television station — that there was constant turmoil in the relationship and both partners wanted to have more control. They married in 2011.
Same-sex divorce is a relatively new occurrence in the U.S. As such, there are complex family law issues that apply in these cases that may not be present in opposite-sex marriages. Because of this, it is often helpful for same-sex divorcees to arm themselves with expertise and a strong, aggressive legal strategy that can help them navigate the often-complex legal landscape. With this in place, same-sex couples can fight for a favorable divorce outcome.
Source: Huffington Post, “Johnny Weir Announces Split From Husband Victor Weir-Voronov,” March 20, 2014
