Cote-Whitacre v. Department of Public Health and Johnstone et al v. Reilly

Two lawsuits challenging the constitutionality of the "1913 Law," which prohibits Massachusetts public officials from solemnizing marriages of out-of-state couples that would be illegal in their home state.

 

The Supreme Judicial Court has agreed to hear the challenge of Oral Arguments in September 2005.  The two sides will have until mid-may to submit written arguments. 

 

 

Case Files

Trial Court

Decision in Cote-Whitacre

Decision in Johnstone