Lawyers in Fleet, Winchester, Guildford & London

Civil partnership agreements

Watson Thomas Solicitors advise clients on the legal rights and responsibilities involved in entering into a civil partnership, to include pre-registration agreements, and the legal implications of ending a civil partnership.

Civil partnership dissolution

The introduction of The Civil Partnership Act 2005 provides a mechanism for same sex couples to register the formation of a civil partnership and if the relationship subsequently breaks down allows for its dissolution. On dissolving a civil partnership the court can exercise similar powers in relation to finances and children as are available on divorce.

Watson Thomas Solicitors have offices in Fleet, Winchester, Guildford, Bracknell, Camberley, Farnborough and Woking.

If you are entering into, or wishing to end a Civil Partnership and need legal guidance and support please call on 0800 488 0218.

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FAQ'S On Civil partnerships

What is a Civil Partnership?

A civil partnership is a legal relationship which can be registered by two people who aren’t related to each other. Civil partnerships are available to both same-sex and opposite-sex couples. It gives you added legal rights as well as responsibilities.

Who can register to be in a Civil Partnership?

You need to be eligible to be able to apply for a Civil Partnership – you are both 16 or over, you have lived in the same area of England or Wales for at least 7 days, neither of you is already either a civil partner or married, you are not close blood relations. People aged 16 or 17 will need parental consent.

How do I register a Civil Partnership?

Firstly you need to give notice of your intention to register at the local register office where you live. You will need to provide your name, address, age, nationality and whether you have been married or in a civil partnership before. You will also be asked to provide documentary evidence such as your passport, birth certification, decree absolute, a final order or the death certificate of a former civil partner. These details are made available for people to see for 28 days before you can register your Civil Partnership. As long as there are no objections, both parties will then need to sign a Civil Partnership document in front of two witnesses and a registrar. This must be done within 12 months.

Civil partnerships