A high-profile challenge of Va.'s gay marriage ban

STEVE SZKOTAK, Associated Press

The high-profile team that brought down California's prohibition on same-sex marriage has joined a challenge of Virginia's constitutional ban on gay marriages.

David Boies and Theodore B. Olson announced Monday they have joined a lawsuit challenging the state's gay marriage ban. The ban also includes a denial of recognition of such unions sanctioned by other states.

They are representing two gay men who say they were turned down when they tried to obtain a marriage license in Norfolk Circuit Court on July 1.

Virginia voters approved the same-sex marriage ban 57 percent to 43 percent in 2006.

A spokesman for Attorney General Ken Cuccinelli said he would defend the amendment to the state Constitution against the legal challenge.

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September 30, 2013