Illinois prosecutors refuse to defend gay marriage ban
CHICAGO (AP) -- Opponents of a gay marriage ban in Illinois don't have to worry about a fight from attorneys who would normally be responsible for defending the state's laws.
Attorney General Lisa Madigan and Cook County State's Attorney Anita Alvarez both have refused to defend the ban, saying it violates the state constitution.
That sets up a scenario where a judge quickly could strike down the 16-year-old law.
The American Civil Liberties Union and Lambda Legal filed separate lawsuits against Cook County Clerk David Orr. He's responsible for issuing marriage licenses in the county.
Alvarez represents Orr. And she says they both agreed with the plaintiffs.
But supporters of the ban aren't giving up. Peter Breen of the Thomas More Society says he's trying to ensure the law is defended.
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