Civil Partnerships

The Civil Partnership Act in 2005 was a major piece of social legislation and since 5th December 2005 it has been possible for same sex couples to enter into a civil partnership.

The Act gives those in same sex relationships who enter into a civil partnership, rights and responsibilities and deals with what happens when the partnership breaks down. Importantly it provides that civil partners should be treated in the same way as married couples when one partner dies or for tax purposes. If the civil partnership breaks down the parties have the right to ask the court to make decisions about how their property should be divided much the same as for married couples.

Mundays family department are able to help not only in dealing with the legal issues on the breakdown of a civil partnership but importantly can assist in advising on the implications of entering into a civil partnership.

It may be sensible to consider a Pre Civil Partnership Agreement, particularly if one party is entering into the civil partnership with pre acquired wealth. It is always important to consider making a new Will and the tax consequences of entering into a civil partnership.  For further information on making a will see Wills.

It is important to note that the Act makes no provision for same sex couples who live together but do not enter into a civil partnership.