Are you part of a same-sex couple looking to gain the rights that married couples enjoy?
As a result of the Civil Partnership Act 2005 which came into force on 5th December 2005, this has allowed same-sex couples to register as civil partners and do exactly that.
What is a Civil Partnership?
Civil partnership is where same-sex couples register their partnership and, in doing so, gain most of the rights that married couples enjoy.
Civil Partnership Rights
Registered couples will have the following rights:
- the obligation to support each other and the children of the family financially
- the obligation to pay child support in the same way as married partners
- protection from domestic violence
- exemption from Inheritance Tax on property that passes between partners
- recognition of the partnership under the inheritance and intestacy (dying without a Will) rules
- entitlement to pass on bereavement benefits and benefits of occupational pensions to a surviving partner
- access to fatal accident compensation.
There is no requirement that couples live together first for a certain amount of time, but without entering into Civil Partnership, couples will be treated, in law, as cohabiting heterosexual couples are.
Civil Partnership Dissolution
Some Civil Partnerships will break down. Much like divorce proceedings, there will be a formal dissolution process where the Court will have the power to make property and maintenance orders.
Civil Partnership has important financial, children, tax and benefit implications, so it is important you seek legal advice to ensure you prepare for your future.
For comprehensive advice on Civil Partnership Law, contact our Family Team on 0121 746 3360 to arrange an appointment or complete our online enquiry form.
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