New Jersey's constitution cannot possibly be subject to the discrimination of the other states. We will see a patchwork in this nation as we have in other civil rights law.

But instead, the Legislature closed the gate on a group of its citizens. When it comes to constitutional questions that relate to the worth and dignity of individuals, this court has always stepped up to the plate and should do so here, as well.

Having two different structures of relationships creates a stigma the New Jersey constitution does not allow.

Courts get involved when there is a problem with a constitutional line.

The principle of equality and liberty are not just words on paper.

New Jersey is a unique state nationally when it comes to this issue. That became very clear with a governor's race in which candidates on both sides opposed an amendment to the state constitution that would limit marriage to a man and a woman.