Civil Partnerships

The Civil Partnership Act 2004 came into force in December 2005 and enables same sex couples to obtain legal recognition of their relationship and parity of treatment with opposite sex couples who enter into marriage.

In order to form a civil partnership in the UK the couple must

• Both be of the same sex
• Not be in another civil partnership or marriage
• Be aged 16 years or over
• Not related in a prohibited degree
• Civil partnership is formed upon signature of the Civil Partnership Agreement.

While a civil partnership is an entirely legal relationship distinct from marriage, for all practical purposes, the rights and obligations which arise are the same as would apply between a married couple. If matters break down the process of terminating the civil partnership is by way of dissolution (as opposed to divorce) and does require court action in exactly the same way as divorce would. Exactly the same financial claims may arise for civil partners as would be available to married couples. Claims for aliment, periodical allowance, capital sum, pension sharing and Orders for Property Transfer Order upon separation or dissolution of the partnership are all competent.

Funding Options For You

We can offer you a variety of funding options including payment by instalments. In some circumstances you may even be eligible for legal aid.

Once we have discussed your family matter with you during our free initial discussion, we will outline the available funding options for you.

Free, No Obligation Assistance

Simply call us for a free, no obligation discussion today on 0131 222 8000 or complete the enquiry form on the right of this page and we will be delighted to help you.