Those conditions are that either the other partner has behaved unreasonably, or the parties have been separated for 2 years and it is agreed in writing that the partnership should be dissolved or one partner has deserted the other for 2 years or, lastly, that the parties have been separated for 5 years.

These conditions are identical to the grounds required for (heterosexual) divorce with the exception that on the dissolution of a civil partnership it is not possible to rely upon a finding of adultery, as it has been assumed that cannot be committed in a same sex partnership.

As with divorce, on a decree of dissolution the court is given powers to make orders dealing with the arrangements for residence and contact of any children of the relationship. The Court can also make financial provision in the form of property transfer, pension, lump sum and maintenance orders.

On the death of a civil partner rights of succession, identical to those given to the survivor of a marriage, are conferred upon the surviving partner.

Contact our specialist family law team for legal advice on Dissolution

Please call 0800 916 9055, or email enquiries@rjwslatergordon.co.uk. Our family law solicitors operate across the country and can offer immediate and accessible representation anywhere in England & Wales.