Brazil’s National Council of Justice has ruled notary publics cannot refuse to marry gay couples or convert a same-sex civil union into a marriage. The council based its decision on a 2011 Supreme Court ruling that recognized same-sex civil unions, AP reports. The court said at the time that gay couples are entitled to same legal rights as heterosexual pairs when it comes to alimony, retirement benefits of a partner who dies and inheritances, among other issues. “It is a major step that will ensure equality among heterosexual and homosexual couples,” Carlos Magno Fonseca, president of the Brazilian Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender Association told reporters. Those opposed to the council’s ruling can file an appeal with the Supreme Court.
Credit: GayNZ.com Daily News staff
First published: Wednesday, 15th May 2013 - 10:31am