Same-sex couples in Indiana can adopt children, thanks to the Indiana Supreme Court, which determined by a 4-1 decision to let a lower court ‘s ruling stand, according to the Indianapolis Star.
In the Aug. 4 ruling, the state’s highest court decided not to hear arguments against unmarried couples adopting. This development affirmed a lower-court decision that allowed adoption by joint petition, which gives both partners equal custody.
The case involved Becki Hamilton and Kim Brennan, a lesbian couple who live in Morgan County and whose infant was a foster child in their care.
In an e-mail to Windy City Times, Lambda Legal Senior Counsel Pat Logue (who represented Brennan and Hamilton) stated, ‘Not only is this a decision that will keep our clients’ family intact, but this is a victory for the thousands of children in Indiana desperately in need of a caring home. The Court acknowledged that two people can create a caring, stable, loving home for children without being married. This is especially important for the gay and lesbian community, given that same-sex couples are not allowed to marry in Indiana.’