Closing arguments begin in landmark trial challenging California gay marriage ban
By Lisa Leff, APWednesday, June 16, 2010
Closing arguments begin in Calif gay marriage case
SAN FRANCISCO — The landmark federal trial over the constitutionality of California’s gay marriage ban has resumed in a San Francisco courtroom.
Chief U.S. Judge Vaughn Walker set aside five hours Wednesday to hear closing arguments in the closely watched case.
The judge heard 12 days of testimony in January and could hand down his decision to uphold or strike down the voter-approved ban in a matter of weeks.
The closing arguments were previously delayed to give Walker time to review the evidence.
The case before Walker involves two same-sex couples who sued to overturn the law, claiming it is a violation of their civil rights.
Last week, the judge gave lawyers on both sides a list of 39 questions he expects them to address during Wednesday’s hearing.
