This program is part of the Emerging Issues in LGBT Law Series. Please click here to learn more about the series and how to register for individual programs.

Same gender families face many obstacles when they attempt the legal dissolution of relationships.  Legal recognition varies greatly from state to state, as does access to divorce and other dissolution procedures.  In many jurisdictions, parents may face the legal reality that they are not, in fact, legal parents.  Preferential federal tax treatment available to heterosexual divorcing couples is unavailable to same gender couples.  Litigation is often poorly suited to their needs, if not unjust. 

This program will address how consensual dispute resolution methods—like mediation and Collaborative Practice—can assist these couples and whether is this preferable to litigation.  Our speakers will also discuss the differing state laws, best practices, and give an overview of the options available to same gender couples, including traditional litigation.

Lee Badgett
Research Director & Professor and Director of the Center
for Public Policy and Administration
The Williams Institute & University of Massachusetts Amherst
Amherst, MA

Joyce Kauffman
Partner
Kauffman Crozier LLP
Cambridge, MA

Charles Spiegel, Esq.
Collaborative Practitioner
Charles Spiegel Law
San Francisco, CA

Alan H. Boudreau (Moderator)
Attorney - Mediator - Collaborative Lawyer
Law Office of Alan H. Boudreau LLC
Chicago, IL

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The ABA will seek credit for this program in the states indicated on this page.   The ABA will seek 1.5 hours of general CLE credit in 60-minute-hour states and 1.8 hours of credit in 50-minute-hour states.  Credit hours granted are subject to approval from each state.  Click here to view a list of 60- and 50-minute-hour states.

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New York: This non-transitional CLE program is approved for experienced NY attorneys in accordance with the requirements of the New York State CLE Board for 1.5 New York CLE credits. Newly admitted attorneys may not earn New York credit for this non-transitional CLE program.

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