Civil Partnerships

Couples in a committed same sex relationship can register their relationship under the Civil Partnership Act 2004. By doing so the couple acquire new rights and responsibilities which in many respects place them on the same legal footing as married couples as regards inheritance and succession on death, tax including inheritance tax, pension benefits, adoption of children and immigration.

Edwina Tyne, Partner at Tinsdills says:-

“The new law can give couples in a stable relationship financial security. However, as well as rights and benefits, in the event of relationship breakdown, financial provision orders can be made similar to those made on divorce. These include maintenance, lump sum and property settlement orders and pension sharing orders.

It is possible for civil partners to enter into a pre-registration agreement setting out what would happen to assets in the event of their relationship breakdown which could limit financial claims upon the dissolution of the civil partnership.

Before entering into a civil partnership it is essential that couples take legal advice on wills, tax planning and the consequences should the relationship fail and to determine whether or not the proposed partners should enter into a pre-registration agreement”.

For further information about how we could help you with this or any other matter please contact Edwina Tyne on 01782 652300 or
email: lawyers@tinsdills.co.uk