Civil Partnership is a legal status acquired by same sex couples who register as civil partners under the Civil Partnership Act 2004, providing them with similar rights to married couples.

We advise our clients on the legal rights and responsibilities involved in entering into a civil partnership. Our specialist team can also advise you on agreeing comprehensive and effective pre-registration agreements, commonly known as pre-nuptial agreements.

If you are ending your civil partnership, we will advise you on the legal process and the financial implications. To separate your finances, you must reach a financial settlement. This must be recorded as a legally binding decision setting out how assets and wealth will be divided now that your partnership has ended.

The process of ending a civil partnership is known as dissolution. Before you can apply you must have been in a civil partnership for a year.

As with divorce proceedings, dissolving a civil partnership is completed by the court. As part of the process, you can apply for financial provision by way of a lump sum, property transfer, maintenance and pension sharing orders.

We also advise civil partners on disputes relating to the arrangements for children if required. These are dealt with separately from the dissolution and financial matters.

Our experts will be able to guide you through the process ensuring that you have a clear understanding of what is expected at every stage.

If you require further information on Civil Partnerships contact our team of specialists on 01245 895105 or send your enquiry to enquiries@manderslaw.com.