LGBTQ+ Law And Counseling
Ensuring Equal Rights, Support, and Legal Protection
Supporting LGBTQ+ Families and Couples in Tampa Bay
The 2015 Supreme Court ruling on gay marriage was a historic victory, but it is just the beginning of addressing the legal challenges and barriers that LGBTQ+ couples and families still face. While the ruling has opened doors to marriage equality, many legal questions and discriminatory practices remain that impact LGBTQ+ individuals’ rights and security, particularly in Florida.
At Brandon Family Law Center, LLC, we are committed to providing comprehensive legal support and advocacy for the LGBTQ+ community in the Tampa Bay area. Our experienced attorney, Mary Greenwood McDermott, works with LGBTQ+ individuals and families to navigate complex legal matters, plan for the future, and ensure their rights are respected and protected under the law. Whether you’re planning a family, facing legal challenges, dealing with a family law issue, or in need of an estate plan, we are here to guide you through the process with compassion and expertise.
Empowering LGBTQ+ Families
A Resource for Same-Sex Couples and Their Families
Since the legalization of same-sex marriage and the recognition of domestic partnerships, LGBTQ+ couples in Florida now have legal standing that was previously denied. However, despite these significant steps forward, there are still many legal hurdles and challenges that LGBTQ+ families face.
At Brandon Family Law Center, LLC, we recognize that LGBTQ+ couples encounter many of the same family law issues as any couple, but with unique challenges.
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Our services address a wide range of concerns, including:
- Creating families through adoption or surrogacy
- Ensuring parental rights, including access and time-sharing with children
- Drafting legally recognized wills and living wills
- Establishing healthcare directives and access to medical records under HIPAA
- Navigating estate planning options that are equal to those available to heterosexual couples
- Qualifying for Medicaid and other government benefits
- Transferring property titles and business succession planning
- Renting or owning property as a couple
- Protecting relationships through dissolution processes when necessary
Fighting for Fairness and Justice
Addressing Problems of Equity and Access
Despite progress, LGBTQ+ individuals and families often encounter lingering challenges in securing equal treatment under the law. While the legal landscape has changed, full societal acceptance and institutional compliance may take time. Many same-sex couples continue to fight for fair and equitable treatment in areas like adoption, custody, property, financial support, and more.
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Our team at Brandon Family Law Center, LLC, is committed to advocating for LGBTQ+ clients facing these unique legal challenges. From second-parent adoptions and surrogacy agreements to disputes over child custody and financial support, we provide practical and compassionate legal solutions. We understand that these issues often require creative legal strategies, and we approach each case with a deep understanding of both family law and civil rights advocacy.
When possible, we prioritize collaborative solutions and mediation to help families come together, resolving disputes in ways that preserve relationships and avoid unnecessary conflict. In addition to family law matters, we are also skilled in handling cases involving transgender rights, employment and housing discrimination, and health care laws for LGBTQ+ individuals.
You Deserve the Same Rights, Remedies, and Respect
Every LGBTQ+ person deserves to be treated with dignity and respect, and that includes the full protection of their rights under the law. Whether you and your partner are in a healthy and stable situation or facing unforeseen challenges, it is essential to ensure that your rights are fully protected. We can help you anticipate potential conflicts and take proactive steps to safeguard your family and assets.
At Brandon Family Law Center, LLC, we are committed to helping LGBTQ+ individuals and families navigate legal complexities and secure the benefits they are entitled to. Our goal is to help you safeguard your rights and future, so you can focus on what truly matters.
For expert LGBTQ+ legal services in the Tampa Bay area, contact us at
(813) 653-1744 or reach out to us online to schedule a consultation.