In Philadelphia, the lawyer Angela
Giampolo is issuing a clear call to same-sex couples: if you’re in a
committed relationship and considering marriage, do it sooner rather than
later—with preparation. Her message comes as the Supreme Court of the
United States moves to revisit the landmark marriage equality ruling, stirring
new uncertainty for spouses and couples across the country. CBS News+1
What’s
going on
In early November 2025, the Supreme
Court announced it will consider whether to review a petition by former
Kentucky clerk Kim Davis, who asks the Court to overturn the 2015 ruling
Obergefell v. Hodges — the decision that legalized same-sex marriage
nationwide. CBS News+2AP News+2
Because of that, Giampolo and other attorneys are encouraging same-sex couples
to use this window to solidify their legal protections. CBS News+1
Why
the attorney is urging action now
Uncertainty ahead. While there is no immediately scheduled decision to rescind
Obergefell, the fact that the Supreme Court is hearing a petition to
revisit it has raised concern. CBS News+1
Legal steps beyond just saying “I
do”. Giampolo emphasizes that marriage
alone isn’t sufficient; couples should also have wills, power of attorney,
pre-nuptials, and other documentation to safeguard their rights. CBS News
Marriage as protection. By recommending marriage sooner, Giampolo argues couples
lock in state and federal benefits and recognition while the legal ground
remains more stable.
What
this means for same-sex couples
For couples in states like
Pennsylvania and across the U.S., the message is clear: marital status could
become even more consequential.
Recognition of relationship. Being married ensures legal recognition not only now, but
under existing statutes like the Respect for Marriage Act (2022), which
mandates that states recognize valid marriages performed elsewhere. (Though
this Act doesn’t by itself guarantee that Obergefell cannot ever be undone, it
strengthens protections.) AP News
Documentation matters. If the legal standard were ever challenged, having your
relationship documented (married, estate planning in place) offers further
protection compared to informal relationships.
Mental and emotional reassurance. Couples like Anthony Lewis and Daniel Simpson, based in
Philadelphia, voiced their concerns about what revisiting Obergefell could mean
for their lives. “It feels like we’re in a world where there’s one step forward
with progress and then two steps back,” Lewis said. Patch+1
Broader
context
Obergefell v. Hodges held in 2015
that the right to marry extends to same-sex couples under the Fourteenth
Amendment’s Due Process and Equal Protection clauses. Wikipedia+1
The petition by Kim Davis is
considered a longshot, but its mere acceptance for review signals that the
issue is back in play. AP News+1
In Pennsylvania alone, nearly
300,000 same-sex couples are married and raising children under 18. CBS News
What
couples can do now
Talk to a qualified attorney specializing in family law or LGBT rights to review your
relationship status and legal documents.
If you’re eligible and ready, seriously consider getting married sooner rather than
later—Giampolo’s advice. CBS News+1
Organize your legal documentation: wills, powers of attorney, health proxies, pre- or
post-nuptial agreements as appropriate.
Keep informed about the Supreme Court’s docket and possible decisions;
legal landscapes can shift.
Emotional support matters: even if nothing changes legally, the process may bring
anxiety—consider counseling or support groups.
A
word on hope and caution
While there is legitimate concern,
it’s important to note: nothing has changed yet. Existing marriages
remain valid and the vast majority of legal experts believe overturning
Obergefell would be extremely difficult. Still, the message from Philadelphia’s
attorney embodies a prudent approach: “Don’t be scared. Be prepared.”