Broward County judge overturns Fla. same-sex marriage ban

Woman seeking dissolution of Vermont civil union not recognized in Fla.

According to the ruling, Brassner and Lade entered into a civil union in Vermont in 2002. At the time, it was the only form of legal relationship involving same-sex couples in Vermont.

However, in 2009, the state allowed same-sex marriages and officially dissolved civil unions.

Because civil unions can only be dissolved when both individuals sign the requisite forms, Brassner sought to find Lade so that she can be married.

Brassner has been a legal Florida resident for 14 years, but the state doesn't recognize her civil union with Lade.

"She and Ms. Lade divided all their property, including real estate," the judge wrote. "Their civil union has been dead for years. But both are still locked in this legal relationship with no other avenue to dissolve it."

Cohen ruled that the state's ban is unconstitutional.

"That law infringes on my right to do what everyone else can," Brassner told Local 10 News.

The decision comes after a judge in Monroe County became the first to overturn the state's ban last
month. A Miami-Dade County judge made a similar ruling eight days later.

Just like those rulings, Cohen's decision doesn't mean marriage licenses will be issued right away. A stay is in place while the state appeals.
Source CBS Miami