In July, Americans United issued a warning letter to Judge James R. DePiazza of Texas regarding his violation of the Fourteenth Amendment in erecting roadblocks to marriage equality. We're pleased to announce that Judge DePiazza has removed the requirement that all couples married by him sign a written acknowledgement that he "'prefers to not conduct same-sex marriages' and must agree to refrain from mentioning the topic of marriage for same-sex couples 'before, during or after the ceremony.'" The new Denton County Wedding Letter and Receipt form no longer carries the discriminating language.
We are very pleased to see this change. However, it should be noted that we have no idea whether the judge is currently imposing additional, non-written hoops when conducting the ceremonies.
If you live in Texas and being denied a marriage license or being forced to navigate roadblocks on the way to getting a marriage license, we may be able to help. Contact us now for legal help.