Since 2019, both same-sex and heterosexual couples have been permitted to enter into a civil partnership. Following this expansion of the legal options that bind couples together, you might be wondering which form of union is best for you.
Read on to discover more about the differences between marriage and civil partnerships, and learn the legal implications this could have on your relationship.
Why might some couples prefer civil partnership to marriage?
While civil partnerships were initially devised for same-sex couples in 2004, the legalisation for heterosexual couples in 2019 saw a noted increase in people opting to get civil partnerships.
This is significant in a number of ways.
Couples deterred by the religious aspects of marriage now have a secular alternative.
From a legal perspective, there are also advantages. For couples who would otherwise be cohabiting, civil partnerships can be highly beneficial and offer additional rights. It offers them a means of financial security if their relationship was to break down. Often, you can choose to draw a pre-registration agreement that states your rights and obligations towards each other and what will happen if you decide to end the partnership. This can be appealing to couples who live together.
What do marriages and civil partnerships have in common?
There are more legal similarities than differences between marriages and civil partnerships.
These are some of the rights shared between civil partners and married couples:
- Property rights
- Pension benefits
- Ability to obtain parental responsibility for a partner’s child
In most cases, you’ll even be able to claim the marriage allowance.
What are the differences between marriage and civil partnerships?
There are certain legal differences between marriages and civil partnerships that set them apart from one another :
- Civil partners cannot call themselves ‘married’ for legal purposes
- A marriage is ended with divorce by obtaining a decree absolute, while a civil partnership is ended with dissolution by obtaining a dissolution order
- It’s also not permissible to apply to bring a civil partnership to an end until it has lasted for at least one year.
- Adultery is not a valid reason to dissolve a civil partnership, but it can be used to divorce married couples
- The only other way you can terminate a civil partnership is if one of the partners dies
If you’re looking for a legal firm in Ebbw Vale that can answer your queries on topics such as marriage and civil partnership, look no further than Richards & Lewis. Here, we have a professional team of local solicitors who are committed to giving expert advice on a range of matters including wills and probate, divorce and more. Contact us today to find a lawyer and for additional information on the services we offer.