Civil unions grant same-sex couples with many liberties associated with marriages granted to opposite-sex couples. Even with many new rights that are granted to couples, they will still likely face family law issues when Illinois law conflicts with federal law or other states' laws on various issues.

As same-sex couples in Illinois may be finding out with tax season upon us, those who are in a civil union in Illinois are required to calculate their federal taxes twice once as joint for conversions to the Illinois tax form, and once as single because the federal government doesn't recognize civil unions.

Couples in civil unions may also face similar legal issues down the line as states and the federal government learn how to deal with these differences and as new laws recognizing civil unions and same-sex marriages are past in other states.

People in Illinois may enter into a civil union as long as they are not currently in one, or in a marriage. Therefore, some people may have to seek a divorce or dissolution of their current union to engage in a different one. The issue of divorce can be different for same-sex couples or those in civil unions from state to state.

Because of the complexity of civil unions when it comes to issues involving other states and the federal government, it might be wise to speak with an experienced family law attorney. They can help research the laws and procedures and work to resolve your family law issues.

Source: STLToday.com, "Illinois gay couples get tax hassle with civil unions," Jim Gallagher, Feb. 12, 2012