Standing with LGBTQ+ Families: Advocacy Without Borders
At The Law Office of Stacy D. Heard, PLLC, located in Seattle, Washington, and serving families worldwide, we believe advocacy must be as inclusive and dynamic as the communities we represent. As Pride Month shines a global spotlight on the rights and resilience of LGBTQ+ individuals and families, we reaffirm our year-round commitment to standing beside these families—whether they are navigating domestic legal matters or complex international challenges.
Whether representing clients in international custody disputes or working to secure cross-border legal protections, we approach every case with empathy, thorough legal knowledge, and an unwavering commitment to achieving justice and equity for all.
Unique Legal Challenges LGBTQ+ Families Face
LGBTQ+ families often encounter legal hurdles that differ substantially from those faced by other families. While the United States Supreme Court’s decision in Obergefell v. Hodges, 576 U.S. 644 (2015), guaranteed marriage equality across the nation, legal disparities persist—especially when family matters cross state or international borders.
Outside the United States, the landscape is even more complex. Some countries continue to refuse recognition of same-sex marriages and LGBTQ+ parental rights. This lack of uniformity creates particular challenges in areas such as:
International Custody Disputes: In cases of international divorce or separation, a parent’s rights may not be recognized abroad, increasing the risk of parental abduction or custody denial. The Hague Convention on the Civil Aspects of International Child Abduction provides a framework for resolving cross-border custody issues, but not all signatories interpret it consistently when LGBTQ+ families are involved.
Parental Recognition: Even within the U.S., although same-sex couples have the right to marry, states vary in how they treat parental rights. For example, courts in some jurisdictions require LGBTQ+ parents to undergo second-parent adoption to ensure full parental rights—even when both names are on the child’s birth certificate.
Estate Planning and Inheritance: LGBTQ+ families may encounter obstacles in ensuring property rights, health care decisions, and inheritance are protected, especially if relocating internationally.
Protection Against Discrimination: Although Washington State law offers robust protections against discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity, not all states or countries offer the same level of safeguarding.
Our Commitment During Pride Month—And Beyond
During Pride Month, we celebrate the achievements, love, and resilience of LGBTQ+ families. However, our commitment does not end with celebration. Action is central to our work.
We are proud to offer dedicated legal services tailored to the unique needs of LGBTQ+ individuals and families, including:
Securing Legal Recognition of Families: We assist clients in establishing parental rights through adoption, parentage orders, and recognition of foreign judgments—ensuring legal relationships are respected both domestically and internationally.
Cross-Border Custody Representation: We help families facing international custody issues navigate the complexities of the Hague Convention and advocate for child-centered outcomes. Our approach is informed by respect for the family’s unique structure and by legal strategies that safeguard the child’s best interests.
Estate and Family Planning: We help LGBTQ+ families develop comprehensive legal plans that protect their loved ones’ rights to healthcare decisions, inheritance, and property—no matter where life takes them.
Know Your Rights: LGBTQ+ Legal Protections in Washington State
Washington is among the most supportive states for LGBTQ+ families. Parental rights are fully recognized regardless of biological connection, and comprehensive protections exist under state law, including the Uniform Parentage Act, as revised to include LGBTQ+ families.
However, when legal matters cross state lines or involve international jurisdictions, the challenges increase. Without proactive legal planning, parents risk facing jurisdictions that do not recognize their parental rights or marriages.
One important case highlighting the importance of jurisdiction is V.L. v. E.L., 577 U.S. 404 (2016), where the United States Supreme Court held that an adoption decree issued by one state must be honored by another, reaffirming the Full Faith and Credit Clause. This decision is particularly significant for LGBTQ+ families who must ensure that parental rights established in one state are recognized elsewhere.
Partner With a Law Firm That Understands Global LGBTQ+ Family Law
At The Law Office of Stacy D. Heard, PLLC, diversity, inclusion, and justice are not buzzwords—they are the foundation of our practice. We understand the nuances that LGBTQ+ families face when their lives and legal issues span multiple jurisdictions.
We bring not only strong legal knowledge but a commitment to advocacy that recognizes the dignity of every individual and family we represent. Whether it’s negotiating cross-border custody arrangements, securing parental rights, or protecting your family’s future through comprehensive estate planning, we are ready to walk alongside you every step of the way.
Let’s Talk. Let’s Advocate. Let’s Build Your Family’s Future—Together.
If you are a member of the LGBTQ+ community seeking legal support in family law matters, we are here to provide the guidance and advocacy you deserve. Contact The Law Office of Stacy D. Heard, PLLC today to schedule a consultation. Together, we will build strategies that protect your family and honor your journey.