Civil Partnerships

A civil partnership allows same-sex couples to have their relationship legally recognised. But what exactly is a civil partnership, and how do you enter into one?

What Is A Civil Partnership?

Introduced in 2004, the Civil Partnership Act made it possible for homosexual couples to enter into a formal legal bond. Those in a civil partnership enjoy many of the same privileges as those in a ‘standard’ heterosexual marriage, and are treated in equal terms in the eyes of the law with regard to:-

Tax;
Employment benefits;
Income-related benefits, tax credits and child support;
Applications for parental responsibility;
Protection from domestic violence;
Recognition in intestacy rules.

However, the main difference between same-sex and heterosexual marriage is that a civil partnership becomes official only when the second partner signs the documents, rather than on the articulation of vows. Additionally, a civil partnership ceremony may not contain any elements of religion.

How Do You Get A Civil Partnership?

To be able to enter into a civil partnership you must be 16 years old or over (although those under 18 need written approval from a parent or legal guardian) and not already married or in a civil partnership.

To register a civil partnership, both partners must give a notice of their intention in person to a registration office in their local area (where they must have lived for seven days or more) even if the ceremony is to be held elsewhere. Included in the notice will be: a written declaration from each partner stating there is no reason that prohibits the partnership, that they have lived in the area for seven days or more, as well as any documents needed to support these statements.

A period of fifteen days follows, in which any objections to the partnership can be made. If no opposition to the union arises, then the couple will be granted permission to register their partnership. This comes in the form of a document called a ‘civil partnership schedule’.

A couple must then sign the civil partnership schedule in front of two witnesses and a civil partnership registrar. The process is then complete, and the couple enter into a legal binding civil partnership.

Summary

If you would like more information on civil partnerships, you should seek expert legal assistance. From the process involved, advice on being granted permission or questions surrounding dissolution or annulment, a family lawyer will be able to help.