Attorney General Brown Urges California Supreme Court to Review Constitutionality of Proposition 8
The profound importance of the issues raised by Proposition 8 warrants that this matter be reviewed and promptly resolved by the California Supreme Court." Attorney General Brown said.
In a set of briefs filed with the Court today, Attorney General Brown wrote that: "review by this Court is necessary to ensure uniformity of decision, finality and certainty for the citizens of California. The constitutionality of the change created by Proposition 8 impacts whether same-sex marriages may issue in California and whether same-sex marriages from other states will be recognized here. There is significant public interest in prompt resolution of the legality of Proposition 8. The Court can provide certainty and finality in this matter."
Typically, matters are brought before lower courts before the Supreme Court hears the case. However, petitioners have asked the Supreme Court to accept the review directly to bring an early resolution to the matter.
Attorney General Brown opposes a stay on Proposition 8, arguing that it would increase uncertainty related to marriages performed in California. The Attorney General´s brief states that "the public interest would be best served not by issuing a temporary stay, but by an expedited resolution of the important issues raised by the petitions."
Attorney General Brown continues to believe that same-sex marriages performed between June 17 and November 4, 2008 remain valid and will be upheld by the Court.
Below are links to the briefs that were filed today with the Court.
Brief 1 [PDF 526 kb / 17 pg]
Brief 2 [PDF 575 kb / 19 pg]
Brief 3 [PDF 3036 kb / 14 pg]

