MARQUETTE — On Friday, the United States Supreme Court declared marriage as a fundamental constitutional right for same–sex couples. Since the ruling, several same–sex marriages have occurred all over the country including Marquette.

The 5-4 ruling has left many people of different religious beliefs, ideologies, and political standings with questions. One of the biggest questions is what same–sex couples who wish to get married should expect at a courthouse.

“When a couple comes in they are going to notice that it’s no different for a same–sex couple as it is for a traditional couple,” said County Clerk Linda Talsma, “they’re not going to see a big difference instead of bride and groom on the application, it’s now going to be applicant one and applicant two.”

The courthouse holds the same requirements of a birth record, proof of residency and if a divorce has occurred those papers are needed as well.

By being legally recognized, same–sex couples that are married will be able to accept the same responsibilities, privileges, and rights as a heterosexual marriage. There are many who believe that the ruling provides a deserved equality that has been absent until now.

“And you can certainly see that throughout the rest of the country where it had been legal previous to it happening all across the country now that we did not re–define marriage,” said M.E.R.C. Associate Director Shirley Brozzo, “it’s still love and that’s what makes a family.”

Declaring marriage as a fundamental constitutional right for same–sex couples has been conflicting to many religious institutions and their members. The first section of a statement made on Friday by Michigan’s Catholic Bishops states:

“Today’s decision from the U.S. Supreme Court to redefine marriage represents a profound legal turning point in the contemporary and cultural understanding of spouses and family. We continue to teach that every human person deserves respect and compassion. The experience of same–sex attraction is a reality that calls for attention, sensitivity and pastoral care. While every person is called to love and deserve to be loved, today’s momentous decision will not change the truth of the Church’s teaching on marriage. ”

The Diocese of Marquette added that those who were still feeling conflicted should talk with a member of their church.

The overall consensus and reaction will unravel more with time, after the Supreme Court ruled in favor of the words etched on the front of their building that says ‘equal justice under law’.