LGBTQ+ History Month and the Law: Protecting Rights, Families and Futures

February marks LGBTQ+ History Month in the UK, a time to recognise the progress made towards equality and to reflect on the important role the law continues to play in protecting LGBTQ+ individuals, families and communities.

For many people, legal advice is not just about compliance or paperwork. It is about security, dignity and peace of mind. From family law and employment law to wills, estate planning and dispute resolution, the law has a direct impact on the everyday lives of LGBTQ+ people.

The Legal Progress of LGBTQ+ Rights in the UK

The UK has seen significant legal developments over the past few decades, including:

· Decriminalisation of same sex relationships

· The introduction of civil partnerships

· Marriage equality in England and Wales

· Legal protection from discrimination under the Equality Act 2010

Despite this progress, LGBTQ+ people can still face legal uncertainty, particularly when it comes to family structures, workplace rights, inheritance and long-term planning.

LGBTQ+ History Month is an opportunity to highlight not only how far the law has come but why specialist legal advice remains essential.

LGBTQ+ Family Law: Supporting Modern Families

Family law is one of the most significant areas where LGBTQ+ clients seek legal advice.

Modern families may include:

· Same sex parents

· Blended families

· Co-parenting arrangements

· Families created through fertility treatment or surrogacy

While the law increasingly recognises diverse family structures, complexities still arise around:

· Parental responsibility

· Adoption

· Child arrangements

· Separation and divorce

Early legal advice can help LGBTQ+ families protect their rights, avoid disputes and prioritise the best interests of children.

Employment Law and LGBTQ+ Workplace Rights

Under UK employment law, discrimination based on sexual orientation or gender reassignment is unlawful. However, workplace issues remain common, including:

· Harassment or bullying

· Discrimination during recruitment or promotion

· Unfair dismissal

· Issues related to transitioning at work

Employment law advice can help individuals understand their rights and take action where necessary, while also supporting employers in creating inclusive, legally compliant workplaces.

Personal Injury and Dispute Resolution

LGBTQ+ individuals may be disproportionately affected by harassment, abuse or hate related incidents. Where someone has suffered physical or psychological harm, access to justice is vital.

Personal injury and dispute resolution services ensure that individuals are supported through the legal process and that accountability is pursued where appropriate.

Wills, Trusts and Estate Planning for LGBTQ+ Clients

Estate planning remains a crucial area for many LGBTQ+ people, particularly where family relationships may not fit traditional legal assumptions.

Putting the right legal structures in place can help:

· Ensure your wishes are respected

· Protect partners and chosen family

· Reduce the risk of disputes

· Provide clarity and peace of mind

Services such as wills, trusts, lasting powers of attorney (LPAs), probate and Court of Protection work are key tools in safeguarding the future, both during your lifetime and beyond.

Why LGBTQ+ History Month Matters to Legal Services

LGBTQ+ History Month is not only about reflecting on the past, it is about ensuring that the law continues to serve everyone fairly and effectively.

For law firms, this means:

· Offering inclusive, sensitive legal advice

· Understanding the lived experiences of LGBTQ+ clients

· Keeping pace with legal developments

· Providing clear guidance at important life stages

How We Can Help

Whether you are seeking advice on family law, employment law, personal injury, wills and estate planning, probate, LPAs, Court of Protection matters or dispute resolution, having the right legal support can make all the difference.

If you would like confidential advice or wish to discuss your situation, our team is here to help.

If you would like to speak to a member of our team, please contact us today by telephone on 01992 422 128 or email to info@ghsolicitors.co.uk. You can also follow us on social media for legal updates and insights, or read more about our services on our website.