Civil Partnership For Same Sex Couples In The Uk
Civil partnership refers to the rights and responsibilities given to the same-sex couples that are identical to civil marriage
. The civil partnership in the UK is executed under Civil Partnership Act 2004, and entitles same-sex couples the same property rights, exemptions in property tax, social security, and pension benefits as are entitled to heterosexual married couples.Civil partnership UK under this act also entitles the concerned parties to get parental responsibilities for the partners children, for maintenance of ones partner and their children. The other rights include tenancy rights, life insurance, next of kin rights in the hospitals, etc. The divorce between the partners also requires some formal procedures like heterosexual marriage.
Legal Procedure for Civil Partnership in UK
Civil partnership is formed when two people of same sex register themselves as civil partners of each other in the presence of registrar and two witnesses by signing a document. This partnership lasts till death of any of the partner, dissolution, or annulment.
To register such partnership, it is mandatory that both parties must have been residing in the UK jurisdiction in which they intend to register for at least seven days immediately preceding the serving of notice. They would have to wait for fifteen days after notice before the partnership is registered. There is slight difference in the procedure in different parts of the United Kingdom.
Who can register Civil Partnership in the UK
Both parties registering for this partnership should be of same sex and at least 16 years old. Parental consent may be required in some parts of the United Kingdom if any party is under 18 years of age. British citizens can also register civil partnerships at British Embassies or consulates-generals in the countries where it is allowed.
Overseas Civil Partnership
British couples living overseas can also register the civil partnerships in the countries of their residence at British Embassies or consulate-generals, or may get their partnership registered in the UK after meeting the minimum residence requirement of seven days before serving the notice to the concerned parties. However, the validity and conduct of the partnership is dependent upon the law of country where they reside.
Venues for Civil Partnership Ceremony
Usually, the civil partnerships are carried out in small ceremonies at any suitable venue often suggested by friends and colleagues. The ceremony can be romantic and glamorous like a real wedding; however, it must be noted that such ceremonies are civil, not religious ones. In some place, for example, in Scotland, the Church may offer blessings, but it will not register. The churches may also let the ceremony take place there if the owner of the land has no objection. Otherwise, the most common venues for such partnerships are wedding halls and hotels.
In conclusion, the same-sex couples are allowed to make civil partnership as per the UKs law. These partnerships have certain legal effects that include property and financial arrangements, parental rights and obligations with respect to children, and changes in names, which may not be mandatory.
by: Tracey Miller