Monthly Archives: August 2009

Illinois Disposition of Remains Act

Disagreements about funeral plans or cremation can be complicated and emotionally-charged for loved ones, but especially so for same-sex couples.   If your partner knows your wishes, but your parents or other biological family members object, there will likely be a lot of unnecessary arguments and pain.
The Illinois Disposition of Remains Act 755 ILCS 65/1 [...]

Making Medical and Financial Decisions for Your Partner

Planning.  Most of us know we need to do it, but we put it off.  And off.
What if you were to be injured or become sick and unable to make decisions about your health care or manage your finances?  You’d probably want your partner to step in and take care of things.  Unlike married couples, [...]

Make Sure Your Loved Ones Inherit Your Property

A will is a legal document that allows you to control who will receive your property when you die, and how and when they’ll receive it.  It also allows you to name someone to carry out the instructions in your will, and allows you to nominate a guardian for your minor children.
If you die without [...]

Legal Strangers

A marriage license is a powerful thing.  It automatically gives each marriage partner and their children specific legal protections and benefits.
The U.S. General Accounting Office has identified at least 1,138 federal benefits, rights and privileges that are available only to couples with traditional marriages.  In addition, the laws of most states give certain rights and [...]