The execution of legal documents by sexual minority individuals

Ellen D.B. Riggle, Sharon S. Rostosky, Robert A. Prather, Rebecca Hamrin

Research output: Contribution to journalReview articlepeer-review

28 Scopus citations

Abstract

Sexual minority individuals (specifically bisexual, gay, lesbian and transgendered [BGLT]) have identities and relationships that are socially stigmatized and legally unrecognized. An online survey of 398 BGLT individuals was conducted concerning their execution of 5 legal planning documents: a will, powers of attorney for finances and health care, a living will, and hospital visitation authorization. We found support for the hypothesis that BGLT individuals who are in committed relationships, have disclosed their sexual orientation to immediate family, and have more income are more likely to have executed some or all of these documents. The authors discuss implications for BGLT individuals and same-sex couples, the need for policy changes and therapeutic intervention, and future directions for research in this area.

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)138-163
Number of pages26
JournalPsychology, Public Policy, and Law
Volume11
Issue number1
DOIs
StatePublished - Mar 2005

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Social Psychology
  • Sociology and Political Science
  • Law

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