Same Sex Marriage / Civil Partnerships

A civil partnership is a legally registered relationship which gives same sex couples rights similar to those of married couples.

Since the introduction of new legislation same sex couples can now marry rather than enter into civil partnerships.

Since 10th December 2014, couples involved in a civil partnership can convert their arrangement to a marriage. It’s a simple process with the only legal requirement being that you sign a declaration stating you agree to convert your civil partnership into a marriage and are happy to become your partner’s lawful husband or wife. The date of your marriage certificate will be backdated to the date of your civil partnership.

To dissolve a civil partnership you need to apply for a dissolution, whereas to dissolve a marriage you need to apply for a divorce. The process for both is very similar, with the grounds for divorce or dissolution being that the relationship has irretrievably broken down. This has to be proved in any one of five ways: adultery (this is only applicable to divorce); unreasonable behaviour; being separated for two years with consent from the respondent; five years separation without consent and five years if your partner has deserted you. 

If the court accepts the application, a decree nisi will be granted. Then, after six weeks and one day, a decree absolute can be applied for which ends the marriage or civil partnership

To obtain a dissolution, you have to wait a minimum of 12 months from the date your civil partnership or marriage took place.