Best Same Sex & LGBT Lawyers in Aurora

About Same Sex & LGBT Law in Aurora, United States

In Aurora, Colorado, LGBT rights are protected by state law and local ordinances. The state prohibits discrimination in employment, housing, and public accommodations based on sexual orientation and gender identity. Federal protections also apply in areas such as marriage recognition and civil rights. This combination means many LGBT individuals can seek recourse through both state and local mechanisms.

According to Colorado's Civil Rights Division, residents are protected from discrimination in employment, housing, and public accommodations based on sexual orientation and gender identity.

Colorado Civil Rights Division - CDLE

Why You May Need a Lawyer

Scenario 1: You face employment discrimination in an Aurora company due to your sexual orientation or gender identity. A lawyer can assess whether state law, city ordinance, and applicable federal protections apply, and can help you pursue a complaint or negotiate a settlement.

Scenario 2: A landlord denies you housing in Aurora because you are LGBT. A skilled attorney can evaluate violations of the Colorado Civil Rights Act and local housing ordinances, and can help with a housing discrimination action or settlement.

Scenario 3: You want to protect a same-sex partner's rights in family matters, such as custody, adoption, or estate planning. An attorney can guide you through parentage issues, wills, and beneficiary designations to ensure your partner is treated as intended by law.

Scenario 4: You need to change your name or gender marker on official documents. A lawyer can file the necessary petitions, handle court hearings, and coordinate with state agencies to update records efficiently.

Scenario 5: You encounter issues with parental rights after a separation or the need to navigate second-parent adoption. An attorney can advise on paternity, custody, and support arrangements under Colorado law.

Scenario 6: You experience a hate crime or bias incident. A lawyer can help you pursue enhanced protections under state law, coordinate with law enforcement, and protect your rights in court.

Local Laws Overview

• Colorado Civil Rights Act (statewide protections) prohibits discrimination in employment, housing, and public accommodations based on sexual orientation and gender identity. This applies to residents of Aurora and businesses operating in the city.
• Aurora Municipal Code - Human Rights Ordinance provides local protections against discrimination in city services, employment, housing, and public accommodations on the basis of sex, sexual orientation, and gender identity. This reflects Aurora's commitment to enforcing nondiscrimination at the municipal level.
• Colorado Hate Crimes Act enhances penalties for crimes motivated by protected characteristics, including sexual orientation and gender identity. This strengthens responses to bias incidents that occur in Aurora and across the state.

The Colorado Civil Rights Act and related state and local protections create multiple avenues for redress in cases of LGBT discrimination in Aurora.

Colorado Civil Rights Division - CDLE • City of Aurora Official Website

Frequently Asked Questions

What is protected under Colorado LGBT anti-discrimination law?

Protection covers discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity in employment, housing, and public accommodations. It also applies to some city services in Aurora.

How do I file a discrimination complaint in Aurora?

You can file with the Colorado Civil Rights Division or with local Aurora authorities if a municipal ordinance applies. Start by documenting dates, people involved, and what happened.

Can I hire a lawyer for a discrimination issue without going to court?

Yes. An attorney can help you negotiate a settlement, prepare demand letters, or pursue administrative remedies before filing a case in court.

How much will legal help cost me in an LGBT matter?

Costs vary by issue and attorney. Some lawyers offer free consultations and may work on a contingency or hourly basis. Ask for a written fee agreement.

Do I need to be a Colorado resident to file a complaint?

Non-residents may have limited rights in some state and local processes. A local attorney can advise you on where to file and which jurisdiction applies.

What is second-parent adoption and can LGBT couples use it in Colorado?

Second-parent adoption allows a non-biological parent to establish legal parental rights. Colorado recognizes diverse family structures, and a lawyer can guide you through the process.

What should I know about name or gender marker changes in Colorado?

You typically file a petition in a local court and complete required processes with the DMV to update IDs. An attorney can help prepare forms and navigate the docket.

How long does it take to resolve a discrimination case in Aurora?

Timelines vary. Administrative complaints may take several months, while court cases can take longer depending on court calendars and issues involved.

Is same-sex marriage recognized in Colorado for legal purposes?

Yes. Same-sex marriage is recognized nationwide, and Colorado extends marital protections to same-sex couples in family, property, and rights contexts.

What is the difference between state and local LGBT protections in Aurora?

State law provides broad protections across Colorado. Local ordinances in Aurora may offer additional or complementary protections specific to city services and housing practices.

Do I need to hire a lawyer to handle an LGBT-related trust or will?

Not always, but complex planning and ensuring documents meet state requirements often benefit from attorney oversight to avoid unintended outcomes.

Additional Resources

• Colorado Civil Rights Division - CDLE - Enforces state anti-discrimination laws and processes complaints for employment, housing, and public accommodations. https://cdle.colorado.gov/divisions/civil-rights
• Aurora Human Rights Commission - City of Aurora body that advises on discrimination issues, education, and enforcement of local nondiscrimination standards. https://www.auroragov.org
• U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) - Enforces the Fair Housing Act, including protections against LGBT discrimination in housing. https://www.hud.gov

Next Steps

1. Clarify your legal issue and goals. Write a one paragraph summary with dates, names, and documents you have or need. This helps you and a lawyer focus quickly.
2. Gather relevant documents. Collect contracts, leases, notices, emails, medical directives, and any evidence of discrimination or bias.
3. Search for local LGBT law experience. Use the Colorado Bar Association directory and look for attorneys who list LGBT rights, family law, or discrimination practice areas.
4. Check licensing and disciplinary history. Visit the Colorado Supreme Court Lawyer Regulation Database to confirm licenses and any disciplinary actions.
5. Schedule initial consultations. Prepare a list of questions about fees, timelines, and strategy. Many attorneys offer a 30-60 minute session.
6. Ask for references and case experience. Request example outcomes similar to your situation and contact references if possible.
7. Make a decision and sign a retainer. Get a written agreement detailing fees, scope of work, and expected timelines. Confirm communication expectations.