The rules are changing for same-sex couples seeking a recognized nuptial agreement.

Earlier this month, the District of Columbia joined Connecticut, Iowa, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, and Vermont in legalizing marriages for same-sex couples. 

Despite these historic strides, the United States is still a nation divided over whether to redefine marriage.

Attorney Fredrick Hertz, author of Making It Legal: A Guide to Same Sex Marriage, Domestic Partnerships and Civil Unions, addresses the perks and consequences associated with same-sex marriages, and he suggests some things all prospective brides and grooms should consider.