Civil Partnerships

Civil partnerships are not just a romantic gesture. They are of legal significance and have far-reaching consequences, which should be considered carefully before deciding to "tie the knot".

The law relating to civil partnerships extends all the financial rights and responsibilities of a married couple to civil partners, and we can advise you on these.

If your relationship breaks down, and as long as one year has elapsed since the date you entered your civil partnership, you or your partner can apply to Court for a separation order or an order dissolving the partnership. In connection with this, you may also make an application for financial provision. The Court could then make a variety of orders, including an order that:

  • the family home or other property is either (a) transferred outright to one partner, or to any child of the family, to a third party for the child's benefit, or (b) held on trust for the benefit of one partner and/or any child of the family, or (c) sold and the sale proceeds distributed as the Court thinks appropriate
  • one partner pays ongoing maintenance to the other, for their benefit and/or for the benefit of any child of the family
  • one partner makes a lump sum payment to the other, for their benefit and/or for the benefit of any child of the family
  • one partner is entitled to a share of the other partner's pension

You should be aware that the factors the Court takes into account when determining a financial settlement between civil partners mirror those which apply to married couples. At the end of even a short relationship, one partner may find themselves required to provide substantial and ongoing support for the other. We can advise you on the financial risks of entering a civil partnership, and how to address those risks. Other departments within our firm can advise you on tax and inheritance planning and the preservation of assets.

We also advise on matters relating to children of civil partners, including parental responsibility, residence and contact, education and welfare, and changing a child's name.

To learn more about the services we offer, please click here.