MARYLAND: Court Of Appeals To Hear Same-Sex Divorce Case Today

Maryland's Court Of Appeals will today hear the case of two lesbians who were legally married in California, yet denied a divorce in their home state.

A Maryland judge declined to grant their divorce in 2010, basing his decision on the conclusion that their marriage is not valid under Maryland law. But lawyers for the women disagree, saying the state should recognize gay marriages performed elsewhere. They married in California. The high court's decision may have limited effect since same-sex weddings — and, by extension, divorces — are set to start in the state in January 2013 under a law passed this year. But opponents of the new law are seeking to overturn it in a potential voter referendum.

Representing one of the women is famed NCLR attorney Shannon Minter.