In fact, according to the General Accounting Office, there are 1,049 federal statutes that describe and protect the rights of those who choose to marry. This means that certain rules apply to all sorts of situations that affect the marriage, including children, divorce, death, illness, property rights, and other acts of mayhem. Without legal marriage, same-sex couples are left vulnerable, and not just to the ravages of love gone sour. At any moment, they may have their wishes overridden by courts or other family members, and may lose property, money and investments through the dastardly deeds of a former loved one. Hey, it happens.
Life is hard for everyone, granted.
But with the complex social issues surrounding lesbianism, coming out, and just plain being a woman today, a committed same-sex couple needs to be extra vigilant when it concerns heath, family finances and investments. You can be creative and flexible, and customize your agreements based on your needs and ideals. Remember though, like any contract, get expert advice and review your agreements periodically. An agreement is only as good as the thoughtfulness that goes into it. It will not reflect your needs or best interests if you haven't thought long and hard about what might happen, pleasant or unpleasant.