As we celebrate Pride Month, we honor the progress made toward equality for LGBTQIA+ individuals, couples, and families. But while marriage equality was a huge step forward, legal gaps still exist – especially when it comes to protecting your rights if something unexpected happens. That’s where having the right plan in place becomes not just important – but essential.
Why Legal Planning Still Matters
Even though same-sex marriage is now legally recognized nationwide, laws still vary widely from state to state. That means certain protections can’t be taken for granted – especially when it comes to healthcare decisions, inheritance rights, or parenting.
For example, a non-biological parent in a same-sex couple might not be legally recognized unless formal steps have been taken. Or a partner might be pushed aside by a biological family member in an emergency because legal documents weren’t in place. Without a plan, even the most loving, committed couples can face challenges in some of life’s most critical moments.
This is why relying solely on marriage isn’t enough. The best way to make sure your wishes are followed—and that your loved ones are protected – is to have a solid legal plan that covers everything.
Traditional Planning vs. Life & Legacy Planning
Most people think of estate planning as a will and a power of attorney. And while those are important, they don’t go far enough – especially for LGBTQIA+ individuals and families.
Traditional plans are often one-time, transactional documents that aren’t reviewed regularly and may not account for your unique family structure or legal risks. They can easily become outdated or incomplete, especially as laws change or your life evolves.
That’s why I use a process called Life & Legacy Planning. It’s a more complete, ongoing approach that considers not just what you own, but who you love, what matters most to you, and how to protect it all—now and in the future.
This planning includes:
- Education about what would happen if you became sick or passed away with no plan in place
- A full inventory of your assets – financial, digital, and even sentimental
- Clear instructions for medical care and who should make decisions
- Regular reviews and updates so your plan stays current
- Legal protection that reflects your family and values – not just a form
What LGBTQIA+ Families Need in Their Plan
Whether you’re single, partnered, married, or raising children, your plan should include:
- Healthcare documents: These ensure your chosen person can make medical decisions for you and won’t be pushed aside in an emergency.
- Financial powers of attorney: Without this, even a long-term partner may not have the legal right to manage your bills or finances if something happens to you.
- Trusts for inheritance: A trust can help avoid probate, reduce conflict, and ensure your assets go to the people you choose – especially important if you have a strained relationship with family.
- Parenting protections: For same-sex parents, guardianship designations and legal paperwork are key to making sure your child stays with your partner or chosen guardian.
- Digital legacy planning: Your online life matters, too – so plan for things like passwords, social media accounts, and digital assets.
How We Create Your Plan
When you work with me, we start with a Life & Legacy Planning Session where we talk about your current situation, your goals, and your biggest concerns. I’ll walk you through what would happen under current law if you didn’t have a plan – and then we build a plan that protects your loved ones and reflects your values.
Your plan will be reviewed regularly and updated as your life changes – so it always works when it’s needed most.
Let’s Take Care of This Together
Pride Month is a celebration of identity, family, and love in all its forms. It’s also a great time to take action and put legal protections in place for the people who matter most to you.
At Cheever Law, we don’t just draft documents; we ensure you make informed and empowered decisions about life and death for yourself and the people you love, starting with a valuable and educational Life & Legacy Planning Session. This will allow you to get more financially organized and make the best choices for the people you love. If you have already completed your estate plan, we will review that plan at your Life & Legacy Planning Session to ensure that it will work the way you intend and address any holes or gaps that may be present if circumstances have changed since you executed your plan.
To learn more about our one-of-a-kind systems and services, contact us or schedule a no-obligation 15-minute introductory phone call today.