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Civil Partnership Solicitors
We are experienced in advising and assisting civil partners who are working through a relationship breakdown, and can help them resolve issues about their children or their pre-partnership agreement.
Civil Partnerships are now available to both heterosexual and same sex couples as an alternative to marriage.
As with marriage, these relationships can unfortunately break down. If the relationship has irretrievably broken down, the civil partnership can be dissolved. The Dissolution process is similar to the Divorce process although there are some differences.
Our experienced team is available to assist you at this time and provide advice in respect of the Dissolution process as well as to assist with arrangements concerning finances and children.
FAQs
What is a Civil Partnership?
A Civil Partnership is an alternative way of formalising a relationship for couples who do not wish to enter into marriage.
Who can enter into a Civil Partnership?
A Civil Partnership is now open to either a same sex or opposite sex couple.
What does this mean?
This enables the couple to show their commitment to each other without the connotations of marriage.
What is the process to bring a Civil Partnership to an end?
The process is similar to divorce but is called dissolution.
When can this be done?
As with marriage, this can be only done once you have been in the Civil Partnership for at least a year.
What must you show for the Court to conclude that the relationship has broken down?
– That your partner has behaved unreasonably
– That you and your partner have lived apart for two years, and that you both agree to the dissolution
– That you and your partner have lived apart for at least five years, if only one of you agrees to the dissolution
– That your partner deserted you at least two years ago.
What happens next?
Once the Court is satisfied that the Civil Partnership has broken down, they will grant a Conditional Order (Decree Nisi) and subsequently a Final Order (Decree Absolute).
Does dissolution include resolving any financial issues?
The dissolution process does not include the financial arrangements. As with Divorce, this is a separate process. We would recommend that advice is taken in respect of the financial aspect of your relationship.
How long does the Dissolution process take?
It is dependent on the speed of the court but should take approximately 4 – 6 months.
How can I find out more?
You can find out more by booking an Initial Fixed Fee Interview with one of our team
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Send us your questions via the contact form and we will be happy to assist.
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Send another enquiryKey Contacts
Sarah Lightfoot-Webber
Chartered Legal Executive
Family Department
Samantha Collins
Senior Associate
Family Law
Jane Wheeler
Senior Solicitor, Family Department
Call Jane : 01489 774836 Call: 01489 774836 Send Jane an Email
Greg Coad
Senior Associate
Head of Family Department
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