Rainbow Love – Benefits of Marriage Equality
In 2013, same-sex marriage was legalised in New Zealand. This allowed many loving couples to finally get the wedding of their dreams.
But aside from fulfilling their life-long dreams of tying the knot, what are the legal benefits that same-sex couples can now enjoy? Here are a few of them.
Their Marriage Is Legally Recognised in New Zealand
Historically, marriage was defined as a union between “one man and one woman.” This definition denied same-sex couples the legal right to marry. If they married elsewhere, their marriage was not recognized when they returned to New Zealand.
Imagine wanting to marry your loved one, only to find that your union means nothing in your own country. Amending the Marriage Act means that same-sex couples can get married anywhere, and it will be recognised and honoured in New Zealand. Those who married overseas before 2013 can now have their marriages acknowledged.
They Can Be Legal Parents to Their Child
According to New Zealand laws, if a married woman goes through IVF with her husband’s consent and becomes pregnant using IVF, then both of them are the child’s legal parent. However, if a same-sex couple uses the same process, often it is only the one giving birth or biological parent who is considered as the legal parent.
Being legally married gives same-sex couples legal parentage and guardianship to their child. Regardless of whether they physically gave birth or not, both are considered as their child’s parents.
They Can Legally Adopt Children
Before signing on the adoption, the system considers a child’s best interest. Before 2013, New Zealand laws determined that having a couple of the opposite sex is the best scenario for kids. This made adopting difficult for same-sex couples.
However, after the legalisation of same-sex marriage in 2013, the laws gradually changed. Amendments were made to the Adoption Law of 1955 that recognised the eligibility of same-sex couples to be adoptive parents.
Rights at the Event of a Death
Death is a part of life that no one can stop, but most people can prepare for. One way that people prepare for their passing is through last wills. However, in case a will is not found, same-sex couples would have to jump across more hurdles than those who are of the opposite sex.
In the past, if you were in a same-sex relationship and you passed away without a will, there was no assurance that your partner would receive any of your assets. They will also have a hard time challenging and contesting a will. All these issues are no longer an issue for people in a same-sex relationship.
Conclusion
Love is love. That is why the push towards marriage equality has been great. People should be allowed to love and express their love freely. Your sex, gender, and sexual orientation should not be a hindrance for you to find your happily ever after.
Same-sex couples are tolerated in New Zealand before 2013. But the passing of the 2013 Marriage Equality Act has paved the way for larger acceptance. Despite all the benefits that legally married same-sex spouses have, there are still some rights that are out of their reach. However, the future is still optimistic as changes continue to happen.
You have the right to marry who you want in whatever attire you want, and we here at Wilkins Bridal can make it happen. Regardless of whether you want an opulent wedding gown for your winter wedding or a flowing wedding dress for your boho wedding, you can trust that we have the dress for you. If you are looking for gorgeous bridal gowns in Christchurch, contact us today!
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