The U.S. Supreme Court has granted certiorari in two cases dealing with the issue of gay marriage. In United States v. Windsor, the Court will consider the constitutionality of the Federal Defense of Marriage Act. In Hollingsworth v. Perry, the Court tackles the constitutionality of California’s Proposition 8, which banned gay marriage in the State. The Court’s action sets the stage for a highly contentious, closely watched legal battle — the first time the High Court has directly addressed the issue of gay marriage. Oral arguments are expected in March, with a decision by the beginning of summer. Future issues of Supreme…

In a decision that seems certain to be reviewed by the U.S. Supreme Court, the First Circuit U.S. Court of Appeals ruled on Thursday that a key provision of the Federal Defense of Marriage Act (DOMA) is unconstitutional. In a 3-to-0 decision, the appeals court struck down a portion of the Act that prevents individuals in same-sex marriages recognized by States from receiving Federal benefits conferred on married couples, such as being able to receive spousal Social Security benefits and file taxes jointly. The circuit court held that such a prohibition violated principles of Federalism and unlawfully targeted minority interests…