The Act is groundbreaking in the United Kingdom, conferring upon registrants rights akin to those enjoyed by (heterosexual) married couples. It does not apply, however, to unmarried heterosexual cohabitees nor does it confer any rights upon unregistered same-sex couples. In at least these respects it falls short of what some had hoped would be put in place.

The registration process

Registration is a straightforward process akin to civil marriage. Couples are required to have resided in England or Wales for at least a week, to have given at least 15 days notice of their desire to register and the time and place of their intended registration at a licensed location (which can be practically anywhere but religious premises). For all practical purposes, the signing of the register at the appointed moment before a registrar and 2 witnesses constitutes the registration of the partnership.

Your rights when registered

Once registered, the Act confers many rights, most of which apply when the relationship comes to an end on the death of one of the partners or by dissolution of the civil partnership. In the event of death, the Act confers rights of succession to property and the right to claim provision from a deceased partner’s estate.

Contact our specialist family law team for legal advice on civil partnerships

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.