The Civil Partnership Act
The Civil Partnership Act was given Royal Assent on 18 November 2004 and came into force on 5 December 2005.
What is a Civil Partnership?
A Civil Partnership is a legal relationship between two people of the same sex and gives legal recognition to couples who form a civil partnership.
How is it done?
A Civil Partnership is formed by the signing of a register in the presence of a registrar and two witnesses. This may be accompanied by a ceremony or not as you choose.
When can we do it?
Whenever you like! The Act came into force on 5 December; however note that there is a formal notice period of 15 days between giving notice of your intention at the register office and being able to sign the register. But don't forget that bookings for registrars and venues may need to be made well ahead since demand is often very heavy, especially on Saturdays and during the summer months.
Why should we do it?
Civil partners gain most of the same rights as married couples in the eyes of the law. This includes taxation (including inheritance tax), employment and pension benefits, recognition for immigration and nationality purposes, and next-of-kin status. For many the benefit is not so much the tax breaks as the formal acknowledgement by the State of their committed relationship.
Are there any drawbacks?
As with marriage, Civil Partnership also brings responsibilities. For example you will be expected to provide reasonable maintenance for your civil partner and the Partnership cannot be dissolved other than through the courts. You will also find that any benefits you receive may be affected by your partner's income. You should note that any Will you have written will become in valid once your Civil Partnership has been formed and you should seek advice about writing a new one.
What do we do next?
If you have decided that you want to go ahead, the first step is to contact your local register office and find out what arrangements they have in place. Some register offices will recommend that you make a provisional booking with a suitable venue and then get back to them.
Where can we do it?
Every local authority is required to provide a facility for the registration of civil partnerships and all premises that have been approved for civil marriages is deemed to be approved for Civil Partnerships too .
Can we have our ceremony in a church?
No. Civil Partnerships are exclusively non-religious and, as with civil weddings, it is not currently permitted to include religious readings, hymns or prayers. If you are a member of a church, you should be able to find out if they can organise a blessing separately.
How do we find out more?
For full details of the new act, you can read the text of the Civil Partnership Act 2004 or consult some of the useful information sources on our links page.
Now what?
Well, that was the serious bit. Now the fun begins: What should we say? Who shall we invite? Can we have a big celebration? What shall we wear? Go to your choices for some help with all this.
