DOMESTIC PARTNERSHIPS, NEW YORK, is a division of the Law Offices of  Boland & Cline, an experienced and caring law firm, specializing in providing gay and lesbian clients throughout Suffolk County, Long Island, New York, with an appropriate legal framework for the creation or dissolution of their committed relationships, civil unions or same-sex marriages. Because NY state law does not yet provide a statutory structure, LBGT couples must fill in the gaps in the legal system on their own. We will help you prepare the legal documents  which can protect your relationship and your rights, focusing on such issues as joint and separate property, inheritance rights, health care, medical instructions, custody, child support and partner support.

The benefits offered to domestic partners vary from state to state; cities, towns and employers also provide different levels of domestic partnership benefits. Your state may opt for civil marriage, civil union, same-sex marriage, domestic partnerships or nothing at all. Right now New York State offers nothing at all.

If you are in a committed relationship, NOW is the time to make a comprehensive agreement as to property or debt distribution, custody or support in the event of a dissolution.  Domestic partnership agreements spell out your choices so that you and your children are protected.

NOW is also the time to specify your  choices  regarding who will make important medical decisions or financial decisions in the event of your death or disability. This is done in supporting documents such as wills, powers of attorney, health care proxies and living wills.