Aug 13, 2014
Equality NC Applauds Fourth Circuit’s Decision to Deny Stay in Marriage Case
Richmond, V.A. (August 13, 2014) – The U.S. Court of Appeals for the Fourth Circuit today denied a request to delay its ruling striking down Virginia's ban on the freedom to marry. Unless the Supreme Court intervenes, today's court’s action means that Virginia couples may begin marrying and having their out-of-state marriages recognized in Virginia as early as August 20.
Prince William County Circuit Court Clerk Michèle McQuigg had asked the court to stay the ruling while she seeks the U.S. Supreme Court to review the case. McQuigg may still ask the Supreme Court to stay the Fourth Circuit ruling.
Equality NC immediately responded to the news, praising the court for a decision that could pave the way for marriage in North Carolina "sooner than later."
“We join Virginia in applauding today's 4th Circuit action to move forward with marriage equality in the Commonwealth and encourage the Supreme Court to leave this important decision in place.” said Chris Sgro, executive director of Equality NC. “Regardless of the result, thanks to the work of our sister state equality group, Equality Virginia, as well as countless organizations, attorneys, plaintiffs, and loving, same-sex couples across our region, today's ruling paves the way for Virginians and families all across the 4th Circuit to begin enjoying all of the joys that come with the freedom to marry, sooner than later. For that we are grateful."