Gay Couples Now Can Be "Together Forever"; Experts Assist in Helping Gay and Lesbian Couples Plan for Eternity

BERKLEY, MI, May 11, 2011 (Press-News.org) Gay marriage still is a controversial subject for many. But what about the rights of gay partners - married or not - to be together forever after their lives are over?

Not many laws are in place to protect the rights of the gay and lesbian community in this area. Now two local pre-planning experts - Debbie Kingsley and Jeannene Keeley - are dedicated to helping preserve the partnership commitments of gay individuals in the Oakland County area.

Like most states, Michigan law does not do much to specifically protect gay rights. "The Elliott-Larsen Civil Rights Act prohibits discrimination on the basis of sex, family status and marital status, but no law actually provides protection," said Michigan attorney Kevin McNulty. Because of these issues, many gay couples are unable to spend their last years continuing to make decisions as a couple. Too often, they are discriminated against when planning for end of life arrangements, too.

"I want to educate gay partners regarding their rights and choices when it comes to end of life decisions and making cemetery arrangements," said Kingsley. When we meet with couples or individuals privately we can answer their questions frankly to help bring them the information they need to plan accordingly. Once arrangements are in place, partners experience greater piece of mind.

According to McNulty, the only legal way to protect partnerships in Michigan is to sign a partnership agreement giving some legal force to their relationship. He also suggests partners name each other as Durable Power of Attorney, allowing them to speak on behalf of a partner in the unfortunate case they are not able to speak for themselves.

From a Last Will and Testament to final arrangements, many couples don't think about the legal aspects of their partnerships. "I believe it's important to make your arrangements in advance so that your wishes are known; it's so unfortunate when partners are told by a cemetery, or by surviving family member, that they can't be next to each other for eternity," said Keeley.

Kingsley and Keeley, both trained family counselors at Roseland Park Cemetery, offer their expertise to the community through local seminars as well as private sessions with couples or individuals to discuss end of life documentation and cemetery arrangements...all without charge or obligation. They offer a complimentary Living Will Kit as well as a Personal Planning Portfolio to help guide individuals through the planning process.

Located in Berkley, Michigan, Roseland Park Cemetery was founded in 1906 and features 133 beautifully landscaped acres, Unlike some cemeteries, Roseland Park does not prohibit burial based on race, religion, gender, or sexual preference.

For more information, or to arrange a private consultation without obligation, contact Jeannene or Debbie at 248-541-1154.