Closing arguments Wednesday in landmark trial challenging California gay marriage ban

Closing arguments set in Calif. gay marriage trial

SAN FRANCISCO — Closing arguments are scheduled Wednesday in a landmark lawsuit that challenges California’s ban on gay marriage.

Two same-sex couples are suing to overturn Proposition 8, which voters passed in 2008. U.S. District Judge Vaughn Walker in San Francisco has set aside five hours for closing arguments after hearing 12 days of testimony in January.

The closing arguments were delayed until now to give Walker time to review the evidence. Last week, he gave lawyers on both sides a list of 39 questions he expects them to address during Wednesday’s hearing.

The judge could hand down his decision to uphold or strike down the voter-approved ban in a matter of weeks. The case is expected to eventually reach the U.S. Supreme Court.