Same-Sex Marriage & Domestic Partnership

The Evolution of Same-Sex Marriage Laws in Nevada

Same-sex marriage in Nevada has been a journey marked by critical legal milestones. The battle for marriage equality began many years ago but reached a turning point in 2014. On October 7, 2014, the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals struck down Nevada’s ban on same-sex marriage, making it legal for same-sex couples to marry in the state. This decision was reaffirmed on a national level in June 2015 when the U.S. Supreme Court ruled in the case of Obergefell v. Hodges, which legalized same-sex marriage across all 50 states.

Before these rulings, Nevada only recognized domestic partnerships for same-sex couples, offering limited rights and protections. With the federal and circuit court decisions, same-sex marriage not only became legal but socially more accepted across the state.

However, it’s crucial to note that the fight for marriage equality did not end with legalization. There have been ongoing discussions on issues such as religious freedom and businesses’ rights to refuse services to same-sex couples.

Defining Marriage Under Nevada Law

In Nevada, marriage is defined as a legally recognized union between two people, regardless of gender. This broad definition came into effect following the 2014 Ninth Circuit Court ruling. Legally speaking, same-sex marriage in Nevada carries with it the same rights, responsibilities, and obligations as heterosexual marriage.

To get married in Nevada, both parties must be at least 18 years old, or have parental consent if between the ages of 16 and 18. Unlike some other states, Nevada does not have a waiting period between receiving the marriage license and having the marriage ceremony.

Marriage licenses are issued by the county, and there are no residency requirements, which makes Nevada a popular destination for couples from other states who wish to get married quickly. The process involves filling out an application, providing valid identification, and paying a fee that varies by county. Some counties also require a marriage certificate, particularly if one or both parties have been previously married.

While the legal requirements are relatively straightforward, understanding the deeper nuances can be complicated. Nonetheless, the key takeaway is that same-sex marriage is legally equivalent to heterosexual marriage in Nevada, as long as the requirements for age, identification, and fees are met.

Legal Benefits of Same-Sex Marriage in Nevada

When it comes to the legal benefits of marriage in Nevada, same-sex couples enjoy the same advantages as their heterosexual counterparts. These benefits include but are not limited to:

Tax Advantages: Filing joint federal and state tax returns can lead to various benefits such as income splitting and eligibility for certain tax credits.
Healthcare Rights: As a spouse, you have the right to make medical decisions for your partner in cases where they cannot, and you can be added to your spouse’s health insurance plan.
Spousal Rights and Protections: Inheritance laws favor spouses, and you have the legal right to visit your spouse in the hospital. Spouses are also protected from testifying against each other in court.
Parental Rights: Same-sex couples have the same rights when it comes to adoption, surrogacy, and parenting, including legal presumption of parentage in most cases.

These benefits are essential for any married couple but were hard-fought wins for the LGBTQ+ community. Understanding these rights can help you make an informed decision about whether to marry or enter into a domestic partnership.

Differences Between Heterosexual and Same-Sex Marriage Under Nevada Law

Despite the sweeping changes in legislation and subsequent social acceptance, some wonder whether any legal differences still exist between heterosexual and same-sex marriages in Nevada. The short answer is no; legally speaking, same-sex marriage carries the same rights and responsibilities as heterosexual marriage.

However, it’s crucial to recognize that societal perceptions can sometimes differ. Some religious institutions in Nevada may not recognize or perform same-sex marriages, although they have no legal standing to affect your rights under state law. The experience of navigating family, community, or religious expectations may differ for same-sex couples, but these differences are social rather than legal.

Domestic Partnerships Defined Under Nevada Law

Domestic partnerships in Nevada are defined as unions between two people, regardless of gender, who have chosen to share their lives in an intimate and committed relationship. Unlike marriage, a domestic partnership does not require a ceremony or even an exchange of vows.

Domestic partnerships are governed by Chapter 122A of the Nevada Revised Statutes. While they extend many of the legal benefits of marriage, including property rights and healthcare decision-making powers, they do not offer all the federal benefits that come with a legal marriage.

Anyone who is at least 18 years old and competent to consent can enter into a domestic partnership in Nevada. Additionally, neither person can be married to someone else or be a member of another domestic partnership that has not been dissolved, annulled, or terminated.

How Domestic Partnerships Differ From Marriage in Nevada

While domestic partnerships offer many of the same state-level rights as marriage, there are significant differences, especially concerning federal benefits. For example:

Domestic partnerships do not qualify for federal benefits such as Social Security survivor benefits or spousal federal income tax advantages.
Domestic partnerships do not carry the same level of societal recognition or validation as marriage, which can affect how a relationship is viewed by others, although this is a social difference rather than a legal one.
Unlike marriage, domestic partnerships can be easily dissolved without a court proceeding, making them less legally cumbersome to terminate.

Understanding the difference between a domestic partnership and marriage is critical when making a decision that best suits your needs, both emotionally and legally.

What Rights Do Domestic Partnerships Confer in Nevada?

Domestic partnerships in Nevada are designed to offer many of the same benefits that come with a marriage, particularly at the state level. Some of these include:

Property Rights: Both parties in a domestic partnership have rights to jointly acquired property. This can be especially beneficial when it comes to real estate and financial assets.
Healthcare Decisions: Just like in a marriage, domestic partners can make healthcare decisions for each other in situations where one partner is incapacitated.
Hospital Visitation: Domestic partners have the same hospital visitation rights as married couples, ensuring that they can be with each other during crucial medical situations.
State Employment Benefits: For those employed by the state of Nevada, domestic partners are entitled to receive certain employment benefits, such as health insurance, that are available to married couples.

While domestic partnerships do offer significant rights and benefits, they do not provide federal benefits. This is one of the major distinctions between domestic partnerships and marriages.

How Do Domestic Partnerships Compare to Marriage?

While domestic partnerships and marriages share many similarities in Nevada, especially when it comes to state-level rights and responsibilities, some notable differences are worth considering:

Federal Benefits: Marriage grants couples federal benefits that are not available to domestic partners. These can include immigration rights for non-citizen spouses, federal tax benefits, and Social Security benefits.
Societal Recognition: Although this is not a legal distinction, marriages generally receive a wider level of societal recognition compared to domestic partnerships.
Dissolution: Ending a domestic partnership is generally simpler and requires fewer legal proceedings than divorce does, which could be seen as either a benefit or a drawback, depending on your perspective.

How to Register for a Domestic Partnership in Nevada

Entering into a domestic partnership in Nevada is a relatively straightforward process, but it does require some specific steps:

Fill out the Application: Both parties must fill out a “Declaration of Domestic Partnership” application.
Provide Identification: Just like when applying for a marriage license, valid identification is required. This can be a driver’s license, state ID, or passport.
Pay the Fee: There is a fee involved, which can vary depending on the county where you are applying.
Submit the Application: Once the form is filled out, identification provided, and fees paid, the application must be submitted to the Secretary of State’s office either by mail or in person.

Necessary Documentation and Fees

To ensure a smooth application process, be prepared to provide the following:

Valid identification (driver’s license, state ID, or passport)
Completed application form
Fee payment (typically via check or money order)

The fee for a domestic partnership varies depending on where you apply, but generally, it ranges from $50 to $100.

Financial Implications: Marriage vs. Domestic Partnership

When considering whether to enter into a marriage or a domestic partnership, it’s essential to weigh the financial aspects as they can have long-lasting implications.

Tax Benefits: As mentioned earlier, married couples can file joint tax returns, which can result in a lower overall tax liability. However, this might also push some couples into a higher tax bracket. Domestic partners do not have this option at the federal level.
Estate Planning: Marriage offers certain automatic rights in estate planning, like spousal inheritance without a will. Domestic partners may have to draft specific legal documents to ensure their wishes are carried out.
Health Insurance: While both married and domestic partners may receive health insurance through their partner’s employer at the state level, federal law mandates this for married couples but not for domestic partnerships.
Retirement Benefits: Married couples have certain advantages when it comes to retirement plans like 401(k)s and Social Security benefits, which are not available to domestic partners.

Understanding the financial ramifications can be complicated, but taking the time to do so can help you make a more informed choice.

Deciding between entering into a same-sex marriage or a domestic partnership in Nevada is a significant life event that has both emotional and legal implications. While the state offers a variety of options to suit different needs, understanding the legal landscape can help you make an informed decision that’s right for you. From the history of same-sex marriage legalization in Nevada to the intricate legal and financial considerations, each aspect plays a crucial role in shaping your choices and future. Therefore, whether you’re considering tying the knot or formalizing your relationship through a domestic partnership, the key is to arm yourself with all the necessary information.

Addressing Common Questions about Same-Sex Marriage and Domestic Partnerships

Is a domestic partnership considered marriage in Nevada?

No, a domestic partnership and a marriage are two distinct legal entities in Nevada. While a domestic partnership offers many of the same state-level rights and benefits as a marriage, it does not provide federal benefits and may not be recognized by other states or countries.

How do I convert my domestic partnership into a marriage?

To convert a domestic partnership into a marriage in Nevada, you will need to apply for a marriage license and go through a marriage ceremony, following all the standard legal procedures for marriage in the state. Afterward, your domestic partnership will automatically be dissolved upon legal marriage.

Are there differences in divorce proceedings for same-sex couples?

Divorce laws are the same for both same-sex and heterosexual couples in Nevada. The process involves filing a complaint for divorce at the district court and fulfilling the residency requirements, among other steps.

What happens if we move to another state?

Marriage is federally recognized, so moving to another state shouldn’t impact the legal status of your marriage. However, domestic partnerships are not universally recognized, which may result in a loss of some or all legal benefits when moving to a state that doesn’t recognize Nevada’s domestic partnerships.