Child custody cases in are often complex and involve considerable emotion. As such, these cases deserve careful consideration of all facts when being deliberated. A recent Florida court decision makes this difficult process less unpredictable and volatile for same-sex parents. Two women were engaged in a very tough child custody battle over the child they raised together, but, in overturning a previous decision, the court determined both parties have full parental rights.

The two women involved in this case had spent 11 years together. After several years into their relationship, they decided to start a family. In the course of planning, they determined which of the two would carry the child, who would provide an egg and gave their daughter both of their last names. They spent two years raising the girl with each other, but eventually decided to end their relationship.

For a long time, Florida statutes did not recognize the full rights of both parents in a same-sex relationship. The first court ruling in this case determined that only the birth mother had parental rights under existing laws. More recently, the Fifth Circuit Court overturned that ruling, determining that the Florida law which removes parental rights from sperm and egg donors is unconstitutional on the state and federal levels.

Many view this ruling as a victory for children caught up in a divorce. Supporters of this ruling believe that it confirms children have a right to all the support both from both of their parents, regardless of their biological relation to them. When two individuals decide to end their relationship, the welfare of all children involved must always considered while determining the terms of their split.

Source: The Huffington Post, "Another Victory for Gay Parents and Their Children," Nadine Smith, Jan. 9, 2012