Estate Planning for Same-Sex Couples

Local Cleveland-area attorney, Joan M. Burda, has written the second edition of her comprehensive handbook, Estate Planning for Same –Sex Couples [Find It].  As the author notes in her introduction, much has changed in the legal landscape for gay and lesbian couples since the first edition of the book was published in 2004. Several states now recognize same-sex marriage, but most still do not. The U.S. Department of Justice has stated that it will no longer uphold the Defense of Marriage Act (DOMA) in court. Estate planning continues to be crucial in maintaining legal peace of mind for gay and lesbian couples.

Estate Planning for Same-Sex Couples covers areas such as contracts, wills and trusts, avoiding probate, children, elder care, and taxes. An appendix includes a wide range of forms and other resources.