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In a landmark decision, the United States Supreme Court last week struck down the 1996 Defense of Marriage Act [DOMA], reversing the federal government’s refusal to recognize same-sex marriages as legal.

The ruling opened the door for same-sex couples in “lawful marriages” to receive the same federal benefits as any other married couple, but what that really means is unclear, according to a press release from Stephanie Hunnell of Hunnell Law, Belmar.

Today at 6:00 p.m., Hunnell, a family law attorney, will hold a free Q-and-A session at The Kissing Booth, a restaurant on Summerfield Avenue in Asbury Park, for individuals and couples interested in learning more about what the Supreme Court decision means for New Jersey residents, the release said. Hunnell is also owner of The Kissing Booth.

Hunnell will discuss what the ruling means for New Jersey couples in civil unions, domestic partnerships and, out-of-state marriages.

Topics covered will include health insurance, the Employee Retirement Income Security Act, immigration, Medicare, federal income taxes and bankruptcy, according to the release. Each attendee will receive a fact sheet that includes include various resource websites for additional information.

Accountant John Marino will also be available to answer various tax related questions, according to the release.

Space for the event is limited. RSVP to info@hunnlaw.net or visit the event’s facebook page.

The Kissing Booth is located at 516 Summerfield Avenue, Asbury Park. The kitchen will be closed, but coffee will be provided.

 

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