From: [log in to unmask] (Gay & Lesbian Alliance Against Defamation (GLAAD))
Sender: [log in to unmask]
MEDIA ADVISORY
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
COVERING BAKER ET AL. V. THE STATE OF VERMONT -
THE STATE SUPREME COURT'S RULING ON SAME-SEX MARRIAGE
NEW YORK, NY, MONDAY, DECEMBER 20, 1999 -Vermont's State Supreme Court
ruled this morning that same-sex couples must be given the same benefits
and protections as different-sex married couples, pointing to the
"constitutional imperative to afford all Vermonters the common benefit,
protection, and security of the law." The Court left it to the Legislature
to decide how best to ensure that such couples would in fact have equal
protections.
Mary Bonauto, civil rights project director for Gay & Lesbian Advocates &
Defenders and co-counsel in Baker et al. v. the State of Vermont, referred
to the ruling as "a legal and cultural milestone," stating: "The Court
recognized that same-sex couples need and deserve the same legal rights and
protections other people take for granted. The Court's decision paves the
way for more secure families and stronger communities."
SUMMARY:
The parties filed their lawsuit in the Chittenden Superior Court in July,
1997, after each of the three couples was denied a marriage license by
their local town clerk. The trial court dismissed the case in December,
1997, and the plaintiffs appealed to the Vermont Supreme Court. The
Vermont Supreme Court heard oral argument in the case in November, 1998,
and interested parties from across the country submitted friend of the
court briefs. In its ruling, the Vermont Supreme Court suspended the case
and retained jurisdiction in order to ensure that the legislature crafts
an appropriate response.
Plaintiffs:
Stan Baker & Peter Harrigan, Nina Beck & Stacy Jolles, Lois Farnham & Holly
Puterbaugh
Counsel:
Plaintiffs in the case were represented by Beth Robinson and Susan Murray
of the Vermont-based firm Langrock, Sperry & Wool, and by Mary Bonauto of
the Boston-based Gay & Lesbian Advocates & Defenders (GLAD).
Media Contact:
Wonbo Woo, Communications Manager
phone: (212) 807-1700 x24
pager: (800) 689-0196
e-mail: [log in to unmask]
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