First same-sex divorce in Kentucky

The first same-sex divorce has been finalized in Kentucky, and with the client’s permission I am printing this:

My wife and I were legally married in Boston, MA in 2009. I am seeking a divorce from my wife, but because the State of Kentucky does not recognize same-sex marriage, I cannot (at this time) get divorced here, where I reside, in Louisville, KY. I have a been a resident of Kentucky for several years now (and this is where my wife was born and raised). We have no children; our assets have already been divided amicably; and most all other details have been mutually resolved between my wife and I. This is the most simple type of divorce. It is absolutely inconceivable that I do not have the same rights afforded as heterosexual couples do to get divorced. There is no reason why I should have to move out of state, and leave my life here, just to start all over again with a new job, new residence, etc., in Boston, MA (or another recognizable state) to reside there for a year in order to be granted a divorce. I already have my career and life established here in Louisville, KY, and should not be forced to be uprooted in order to have what should be a legal right afforded me. I feel it is unconstitutional and I am fighting the laws of KY for my rights, and for the rights of other same-sex couples in similar circumstances who are seeking divorce, but cannot be granted one, because of these (what I strongly feel to be unjust) laws. My wife and I are trying to maintain our friendship and rebuild the good relationship as friends that we once had. I hope the inevitable, upcoming, lengthy, drawn out, legal proceedings will not destroy this.

We prevailed! It took quite a long time since October, but am grateful Judge O’Reilly made the correct decision. I am also extremely grateful for Louis Waterman, Esq., and his firm for all their hard work in my case. We have other issues that still need to be addressed in court and are working on that, but the divorce is finalized! I couldn’t have done any of this without Louis Waterman, Esq., his staff, and the referral from Shannon Fauver, Esq. and Dawn Elliot, Esq. (Fauver Law Office was initially retained, but referred me to Louis)

Alysha Romero