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Free Guide to Hiring a Family Lawyer
Bloomfield Township is located in Oakland County, Michigan. Residents are protected by federal and state laws that prohibit discrimination based on sex, sexual orientation, and gender identity in many contexts. The township itself does not typically enact standalone LGBT specific ordinances, so state and federal protections apply directly within the local community.
At the federal level, the right to same sex marriage is established nationwide, and employment and housing protections extend to LGBT individuals under applicable statutes and court decisions. In Michigan, the Elliott-Larsen Civil Rights Act governs discrimination in key areas such as employment, housing, and public accommodations, with recent interpretations extending protections to sexual orientation and gender identity. See the citations below for authoritative sources on these protections.
“The Elliott-Larsen Civil Rights Act prohibits discrimination on the basis of sex; courts and agencies have applied protections to sexual orientation and gender identity.”Source: Michigan Department of Civil Rights (MDCR) guidance and Michigan law references. MDCR
“Same sex couples may marry nationwide as a matter of constitutional right.”Source: Obergefell v. Hodges, 576 U.S. 644 (2015). U.S. Supreme Court
“Discrimination based on sex includes protections against discrimination because of sexual orientation and gender identity in employment under Title VII as interpreted by the Supreme Court.”Source: Bostock v. Clayton County, 590 U.S. ___ (2020). U.S. Supreme Court
For practical context, Michigan law primarily governs employment, housing and access to state services, while federal decisions fill gaps in areas like marriage and workplace rights. Bloomfield Township residents should understand both streams to navigate legal issues effectively.
You are a same-sex couple seeking to obtain or recognize a marriage or civil union in Michigan. A lawyer can guide you through the county clerk process and ensure your rights are protected if there are complications. In Michigan, marriage licenses are issued by the county clerk where you reside; for Bloomfield Township residents, this typically means the Oakland County Clerk’s Office.
You or a family member experience housing discrimination in Bloomfield Township or Oakland County. An attorney can help you file complaints with the Michigan Department of Civil Rights and, if needed, pursue federal claims through the EEOC or a court.
You face workplace discrimination or harassment because of sexual orientation or gender identity. An attorney can assess claims under both ELCRA (state) and Title VII (federal), and help you pursue remedies with the EEOC or in court.
You want to adopt your same-sex partner’s child or establish parental rights. An attorney can navigate Michigan adoption statutes and any intersecting family law issues to protect your family’s legal status.
You are changing your name or gender markers and need to modify official records. An attorney can assist with the court process, court orders, and updating records across agencies.
You require guidance about school rights for a transgender or nonbinary student in a Bloomfield Township or Oakland County school district, including access to facilities and anti-bullying protections. A lawyer can help with communications to schools and, if needed, legal remedies.
Obergefell v. Hodges, 2015 - This U.S. Supreme Court decision established the constitutional right to same sex marriage across all states, including Michigan. It ensures that marriages performed in any state are recognized nationwide, affecting marital rights, benefits, and recognition.
Elliott-Larsen Civil Rights Act (Mich. Comp. Laws § 37.2101 et seq.) - This Michigan statute prohibits discrimination in employment, housing, and public accommodations on the basis of sex. State interpretations and civil rights enforcement have expanded protections to include sexual orientation and gender identity under ELCRA.
Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, as interpreted by Bostock v. Clayton County - Federal law prohibiting discrimination on the basis of sex in employment, with the Supreme Court clarifying that discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity is a form of sex discrimination. This provides an important federal framework for LGBT employment protections in Bloomfield Township and across the United States.
Practical note for residents: there is no evidence of a Bloomfield Township ordinance that creates standalone LGBT protections beyond these state and federal frameworks. Local protections align with Michigan ELCRA and federal law, with enforcement efforts typically coordinated through the Michigan Department of Civil Rights and the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission.
Oakland County Clerk's Office processes marriage licenses for Bloomfield Township residents, reflecting local implementation of state law. Always confirm current procedures with the Clerk’s Office before applying.
The ELLCRA prohibits discrimination in employment, housing, and public accommodations on the basis of sex. Courts and agencies have interpreted the act to include protections for sexual orientation and gender identity in practice. Enforcement is through the Michigan Department of Civil Rights and the courts.
You can file with the Michigan Department of Civil Rights and, for employment issues, with the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission. Online intake is available, and you will receive guidance on evidence and timelines.
Same sex couples may marry under the Obergefell decision. In Michigan, you apply for a marriage license at the county clerk’s office, typically Oakland County Clerk if you live in Bloomfield Township. Expect standard fees and waiting periods as set by the county.
While you can file complaints yourself, an attorney helps preserve evidence, clarify legal theories, and negotiate settlements or pursue litigation if needed. Legal guidance is especially helpful for complex cases or multi-jurisdictional claims.
Attorney fees vary by case type and complexity. Some matters use hourly rates; others may use flat fees for consultations or document review. Ask for an estimate and a written retainer agreement before proceeding.
Yes, Michigan allows same-sex couples to adopt. The process follows standard adoption law, but an attorney can help with filings, consent, and finalization steps to protect parental rights.
File a complaint with the EEOC or Michigan Civil Rights Department. An attorney can help you gather evidence, calculate damages, and pursue remedies through settlements or litigation.
Timeline varies widely by case type. Administrative complaints may resolve in months, while civil litigation can take many months to years depending on court schedules and appeals.
State protections (ELCRA) govern employment, housing, and public accommodations in Michigan. Federal protections (Title VII, via Bostock) apply to employment nationwide and address broader civil rights concerns.
Schools must follow federal and state anti-discrimination laws and provide appropriate accommodations. If a school restricts rights improperly, a civil rights attorney can assess claims and advise on remedies.
Changing a name or gender marker requires court orders and updates to state records. An attorney can guide you through the petition, certification, and notification steps to ensure consistency across records.
Renter or buyer rights are protected under ELCRA and federal law. If you experience discrimination, document interactions and contact the MDCR or EEOC for guidance and potential enforcement actions.
Multiple government and nonprofit resources support LGBT families. Start with the MDCR and EEOC websites for enforcement and guidance, and consult local legal aid services if needed.
Define your legal goal and gather all relevant documents, dates, and contacts before consulting an attorney. This speeds up evaluation and case planning.
Identify potential lawyers who practice LGBT law in Oakland County or nearby jurisdictions. Prioritize those with clear experience in ELCRA and federal civil rights issues.
Schedule a consultation to discuss facts, options, and costs. Ask for a written fee estimate, scope of representation, and anticipated timeline.
Prepare a written list of questions and your desired outcomes. Include any deadlines, such as complaint filing dates or court schedules.
Review a proposed retainer agreement for conflict checks, fee structure, and the lawyer’s responsibility. Confirm how communications will be handled and how often you will receive updates.
File necessary complaints or petitions with MDCR, EEOC, or local clerks as advised by your attorney. Track filing dates and confirmations promptly.
Monitor progress and adjust strategy with your counsel as needed. Maintain copies of all documents and communications for your records.
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Each profile includes a description of the firm's areas of practice, client reviews, team members and partners, year of establishment, spoken languages, office locations, contact information, social media presence, and any published articles or resources. Most firms on our platform speak English and are experienced in both local and international legal matters.
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Disclaimer:
The information provided on this page is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. While we strive to ensure the accuracy and relevance of the content, legal information may change over time, and interpretations of the law can vary. You should always consult with a qualified legal professional for advice specific to your situation.
We disclaim all liability for actions taken or not taken based on the content of this page. If you believe any information is incorrect or outdated, please contact us, and we will review and update it where appropriate.
