Judge: New Jersey Recognizes Same-Sex Marriage for Purposes of Divorce

As reported by the Associated Press on February 6, 2009:

A state judge has ruled that gay marriage is recognized in New Jersey for the purpose of divorce.

The wider implications of Friday's ruling aren't immediately clear. But State Superior Court Judge Mary Jacobson says New Jersey has a long history of recognizing marriages that are valid where they were performed. New Jersey doesn't let gays marry but does allow civil unions, which extend the benefits of marriage to gay couples.

La Kia and Kinyati Hammond were married in Canada in March 2004 and lived in Maryland. La Kia Hammond says she needs a divorce recognized in Canada so she can marry another woman there.

The state has not said whether it will seek an appeal.

Barring an appeal of the ruling by the state, same-sex couples from states like Massachusetts, Connecticut, and California may also seek a divorce in the New Jersey courts.