Releases

In a state such as Texas, where recognition of same-sex marriage seems unlikely, the most important piece of paper a same-sex couple with children can obtain may be a formal custody agreement. The agreements establish the legally recognized relationship between the child conceived through assisted reproduction and each parent. "In traditional partnerships, you hear ‘It's just a piece of paper' as an excuse not to formalize the relationship legally," says Monica Cruz of the Dallas family law firm of McCurley Orsinger McCurley Nelson & Downing. "However, when you are in a relationship without these basic legal protections, you need to secure what legally binding agreements are available for your protection as well as that of your child." For more information, contact Rhonda Reddick at 800-559-4534 or rhonda@androvett.com.