"... one of the core elements embodied in
the state constitutional right to marry is the right of an individual and a couple to
have their own official family relationship accorded respect and dignity equal to
that accorded the family relationship of other couples."

".... the state’s assignment of a different name to the couple’s relationship poses a risk that the
different name itself will have the effect of denying such couple’s relationship the
equal respect and dignity to which the couple is constitutionally entitled."

"... Instead of presuming the
validity of the statutes defining marriage and establishing domestic partnership, in
effect the majority presumes them to be constitutionally invalid by characterizing
domestic partnership as a “mark of second-class citizenship.” (Maj. opn., ante, at
p. 118.) This judicial presumption contravenes the express intent of the
Legislature to equalize the rights of spouses and domestic partners."


excerpts from Lockyer v. City and County of San Francisco (2004). California Supreme Court opinions document

but you know it's not "happily ever after" yet...