State bar association supports same-sex marriages
The Washington State Bar Association is now on record in favor of equal marriage rights for same-sex couples as a matter of practicality for lawyers and of fairness in society.
The resolution was adopted unanimously by the group's 14-member Board of Governors despite considerable opposition from association members, board president Mark Johnson of Seattle said.
"We felt it was appropriate to take a position," Johnson told the Tri-City Herald. "There certainly will be people who will be distressed."
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Stanley A. Bastian of Wenatchee, immediate past president of the bar association and the board's presiding officer, said the resolution adopted during meetings Sept. 18-19 is the first of its kind nationwide to be adopted by a mandatory state bar association.
"Having one set of rules that apply to all couples engaged in recognized relationships would provide clarity and help ensure equitable treatment for all persons, regardless of sexual orientation," Bastian said in a statement issued by the group.
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