LGBTQ+ Family Law
The Rhodes Law Firm is a welcoming, inclusive firm committed to serving LGBTQ+ individuals and families across Louisiana with knowledgeable, compassionate legal counsel.
Since the U.S. Supreme Court's decision in Obergefell v. Hodges (2015), same-sex couples in Louisiana have the same right to marry as any other couple — and the same rights and responsibilities that come with marriage. But navigating family law as an LGBTQ+ individual or couple in Louisiana can still present unique challenges, particularly around parentage, adoption, and the intersection of federal and state law. We are here to help.
Marriage & Divorce
Same-sex couples in Louisiana have full access to marriage and are subject to the same community property rules, divorce procedures, and spousal support laws as any other married couple. We help same-sex couples with all aspects of marriage — from prenuptial agreements to divorce, property partition, and spousal support.
Parentage & Adoption
Establishing legal parentage for both parents in a same-sex couple is critically important — and sometimes requires affirmative legal steps that heterosexual couples do not face. Second-parent adoption, step-parent adoption, and pre-birth parentage orders (in surrogacy situations) are all tools we use to ensure that both parents have legally recognized parental rights. We also represent LGBTQ+ individuals and couples in custody and visitation disputes.
Assisted Reproduction & Surrogacy
Many LGBTQ+ families are formed through assisted reproductive technology — including sperm donation, egg donation, IVF, and surrogacy. We help LGBTQ+ intended parents navigate the legal complexities of ART in Louisiana, including drafting donor agreements, surrogacy contracts, and pursuing court orders to establish legal parentage for both parents before the child is born.
Estate Planning for LGBTQ+ Families
Estate planning is especially important for LGBTQ+ families, where parentage or the legal status of a relationship may be questioned by relatives or third parties. Wills, trusts, powers of attorney, and healthcare directives ensure that your wishes are respected and your family is protected — even if family members or others challenge your relationship or your rights.
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Related Family Law Services
Every Family Deserves Strong Legal Representation
Contact us for a free, confidential consultation. We are proud to serve the LGBTQ+ community across Louisiana.