Illinois was one of the few states that legalized same-sex marriage before the United States Supreme Court made such marriages legal at the federal level. Beginning in 2013, Illinois recognized same-sex marriages, paving the way for greater rights for gay and lesbian couples.
Many of the people who suddenly had their relationships recognized by the state in 2013 or after the Supreme Court ruling two years later had been in a committed relationship with their partner for years at that point. Those with same-sex, committed relationships predating the legalization of same-sex marriages in Illinois may have unique concerns if they divorce.
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