Difference Between Civil Partnerships and Marriage
Over the years, there has been significant changes to the Marriage Act 1949 and Civil Partnership Act 2004. In this article, we look at the difference between civil partnerships and marriage.
The Difference Between Civil Partnerships and Marriage
What is a Civil Partnership?
On 5th December 2005, the Civil Partnership Act 2004 came into force in the UK, meaning same-sex couples could obtain legal recognition of their relationship and have similar legal rights to those of a married couple.
Since then, the law has developed further from December 2019 eligible opposite sex couples may also register a civil partnership. In addition, same sex couples may convert their civil partnership to marriage if they wish. However, at present opposite sex couples do not have this right to convert.
What is the Difference Between Civil Partnerships and Marriage?
With civil partnerships and marriage available to both same sex and opposite sex couples, there isn’t many significant differences between the two.
However, some differences between civil partnerships and marriage do exist:
- The first difference is marriage is formed by vows, whereas a civil partnership is formed by signing a civil partnership document in front of two witnesses and a registrar.
- A marriage is ended by divorce and a civil partnership is ended by dissolution, but the process is essentially the same.
- Civil partners cannot refer to themselves as being ‘married’ for legal purpose.
Divorce & Family Law Solicitors
Morrish Solicitors is a well-established law firm based in Yorkshire. We provide a vast range of legal services to private clients, Trade Unions, Associations and their members. Our experienced Divorce and Family Law Solicitors can advise on a range of matters including:
- Divorce
- Property and Financial Affairs
- Disputes Concerning Children
- Cohabitation Agreement
- Adoption
- Separation
- Prenuptial Agreements
- Civil Partnerships
- Domestic Violence
If you would like to discuss your matrimonial/family matter with a member of our Divorce and Family Law team, please call us on 033 3344 9600 or simply email [email protected] with your request.
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