Civil Partnerships2024-09-27T16:02:17+01:00

Civil Partnership Solicitors

Civil Partnership Solicitors

Secure your rights with our expert civil partnership solicitors – from pre-partnership agreements to dissolution, we’re here to support you every step of the way.

  • Experts in civil partnership law specific to Northern Ireland
  • Comprehensive legal services for all aspects of civil partnerships
  • Friendly & approachable team
  • Offices in Belfast, Antrim and Bangor
  • Free Initial Consultation
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Civil Partnerships in Northern Ireland

In Northern Land, civil partnerships formally recognise relationships between same-sex couples – similar to marriage but without the religious connotations. This legal framework allows those in a civil partnership to enjoy the same rights and responsibilities as married couples.

As of the 13th January 2020, same-sex marriage has also became legal in Northern Ireland. Couples here now have the ability to choose the arrangement that best suits their personal beliefs and circumstances.

There are several advantages associated with civil partnerships:

  • Equality in Rights – Civil partnerships provide the same legal and financial security as marriage, covering areas such as property, inheritance, and tax benefits.
  • Flexibility – They offer a secular option for couples who prefer to avoid religious affiliations in their union.
  • Security in Planning – Ideal for same-sex couples planning to buy property together or start a family, ensuring all legal aspects are covered particularly in situations of dissolution.

How Our Civil Partnership Solicitors Can Support You

Our solicitors offer a range of legal services for civil partnerships and same-sex couples, no matter what stage you are at within your relationship.

Pre-Civil Partnership Agreements

A pre-civil partnership agreement is much like a prenuptial agreement, designed to outline how assets and responsibilities will be handled should the partnership dissolve. By setting clear expectations and legal stipulations beforehand, it provides peace of mind and financial clarity for both parties. Our skilled solicitors can guide you through drafting this essential document, ensuring your interests are protected as you enter into your civil partnership.

Civil Partnership Dissolution

Dissolution is the formal process of legally ending a civil partnership, similar to divorce in marriage. Our law firm offers comprehensive support during this challenging time, providing expert advice on financial settlements, property division, and child custody arrangements. Please see the sections below, for a more detailed overview of how we can assist you with your civil partnership dissolution.

Financial Settlements

Financial settlements are crucial when a civil partnership dissolves, addressing the division of assets, debts, and ongoing financial responsibilities. These agreements are typically arranged during the dissolution process to ensure a fair distribution that protects both parties’ financial futures. Our solicitors are proficient in negotiating and securing settlements that uphold your interests, guiding you through each step to achieve a resolution that is just and equitable.

Child Law

In the context of civil partnerships, child law covers a range of sensitive issues, including adoption, surrogacy, and other aspects of family planning. For couples facing the dissolution of their partnership, determining arrangements for child contact, custody, and maintenance are also paramount. Our legal team is experienced in navigating these complex matters, ensuring that the best interests of the children and your parental rights are central to any agreement.

Grounds for Civil Partnership Dissolution in Northern Ireland

We understand the emotional and logistical complexity of dissolving a civil partnership, especially as each couple’s circumstances may vary.

In Northern Ireland, the grounds for the dissolution of a civil partnership are largely aligned with those for divorce, with one notable exception: “adultery” is not recognised as a ground for dissolution. This distinction exists because the legal definition of adultery specifically involves a relationship between a man and a woman, which does not encompass same-sex relationships.

Grounds for Dissolution in Northern Ireland:

  • Two Year Separation – Couples can dissolve their civil partnership if they have lived apart for at least two years and both parties agree to the dissolution. This acknowledges mutual consent to end the partnership after a period of separation.
  • Five Year Separation – If one party does not consent to the dissolution, the partnership can still be legally dissolved after a five-year separation. This acknowledges the de facto end of the partnership, despite the lack of mutual agreement.
  • Unreasonable Behaviour – This covers a range of behaviours that make it unreasonable to expect one partner to continue living with the other. For example, emotional abuse, financial irresponsibility, or neglect.
  • Desertion – If one partner has deserted the other for a continuous period of at least two years, this constitutes grounds for dissolution. Desertion involves the intentional abandonment of one partner by the other without consent or reasonable cause.

Civil Partnership Dissolution Process in Northern Ireland

The dissolution process in Northern Ireland is very similar to the divorce proceedings process – therefore it’s important for a solicitor to act on your behalf, especially if your civil partner does not consent or decides to defend against the dissolution.

Our solicitors make sure the dissolution process is kept clear and straightforward, so it’s as stress free for you as possible:

Step 1. Contact Reid Black
Start by reaching out to our team. We’ll provide a free initial consultation to understand your situation and outline the necessary legal steps to start your dissolution.

Step 2. Lodging the Petition
Our solicitors will help you prepare and file the dissolution petition with the court. We make sure all legal requirements are met to avoid delays, and will ensure your petition accurately reflects your circumstances.

Step 3. Serving the Petition
We will formally deliver the petition to your partner, in accordance with legal standards. This step is crucial for the proceedings to move forward correctly.

Step 4. Court Hearing
Should the dissolution require a court hearing, we will represent you and advocate on your behalf for the best possible outcome.

Step 5. Conditional Order Granted
Once the court is satisfied that all criteria for dissolution are met, a conditional order is granted. We’ll explain what this means for you and prepare you for the next steps towards finalising your dissolution.

Step 6. Conditional Order Made Final
After a mandatory waiting period, we’ll assist you in applying to make the conditional order final, which legally ends the civil partnership. Our team will ensure all documents are submitted correctly and on time.

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Why Choose Reid Black?

Our solicitors have a strong client satisfaction track record, and are known for our expertise and commitment to delivering exceptional service. We are a trusted firm that understands the nuances of Northern Ireland’s civil partnership laws, and are passionate about representing same-sex couples and upholding their rights.

Our Specialist Civil Partnership Solicitors

Our Specialist Civil Partnership Solicitors

Karen Cox
Karen Cox
  • Karen Cox has extensive experience dealing with all aspects of Family Law within Northern Ireland.
  • She excels in helping clients navigate the challenges faced during divorce proceedings.
  • Karen is often commended for her ability to explain complex Family Law legal documents in easy-to-understand terms.
  • Contact Karen for a free initial consultation, to determine the best approach for your Family Law case.
Amy Carson
Amy Carson
  • Amy Carson is one of Reid Black’s latest solicitors working within the Matrimonial and Family Law department.
  • She specialises in Divorce, Child Law and Domestic Violence in Northern Ireland.
  • Amy has won multiple awards during her studies at Queen’s University and brings her attention to detail to each and every case at Reid Black.
  • Contact Amy today for a free initial consultation to discuss your Family Law or Child Law case.

Frequently Asked Questions

The cost to dissolve a civil partnership can vary widely depending on the complexity of the case and whether it is contested. Typically, court fees plus solicitor fees can range from several hundred to several thousand pounds. For an accurate estimate tailored to your specific situation, contact our solicitors. We have a range of flexible legal funding options available.

The duration to dissolve a civil partnership in Northern Ireland typically ranges from a few months to over a year. The timeline depends on whether the dissolution is contested and the complexity of issues such as asset division and child custody. An uncontested dissolution can be quicker, often resolved within 4-6 months, whereas contested cases may extend longer.

To form a civil partnership in Northern Ireland, both parties must be at least 18 years old (or have parental consent if aged 16 or 17), not be closely related, and be of the same sex. Additionally, both must be free to form the partnership (not already in one or legally married) and must formally register their intent with the local registrar.

Yes, in Northern Ireland, you can convert a civil partnership to a marriage. This process involves giving notice to your local registrar, just as you would for a marriage. The conversion can be recognised through a simple administrative process or a ceremony, depending on the couple’s preference. Both partners must appear in person to sign the conversion document.

As of now, the deadline for converting a civil partnership to a marriage in Northern Ireland without fees was until December 2021, and the overall window to convert with this specific process closed in December 2023. For any conversions beyond this period, standard procedures and fees would apply. Contact us today for further information.

In a civil partnership in Northern Ireland, your rights are similar to those of married couples. These include entitlements to property rights, inheritance, pension benefits, and the ability to obtain parental responsibilities. You also have the right to apply for parental orders related to surrogacy arrangements and are recognised for immigration and nationality purposes. These rights ensure you are legally protected in areas such as next of kin arrangements and claiming social benefits.

Get the guidance you need from our civil partnership solicitors

For expert guidance and support with civil partnership legal matters, contact us today for a free initial consultation to discuss your specific needs.

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      Great if you get stuck in a jam with the local police.
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      Brilliant solicitor. Thank you.
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      Great service from a professional company. Eilis McQuillan handled a case for me and was outstanding. I was kept informed at every stage and would recommend Reid Black without hesitation.
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      I would highly recommend this company and I have used them a few times . Absolutely Fantastic company .
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      I approached Reid Black Solicitors having known Hamill Clawson for many years as a good dependable lawyer and having been badly let down and grossly overcharged by another solicitor. He referred me to his colleague, David French who was very approachable and went out of his way to help resolve matters equitably in a timely and stress free manner.As a busy professional, this invaluable advice from Hamill and, especially his partner David was greatly appreciated. I am impressed by the high standard of service offered by this Firm and would recommended their services without caveat.read more
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      1st class service. Case was resolved quickly, handled with sensitivity and professionalism. Couldn’t recommend Eilis highly enough. Very happy.
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      Seema King
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      17:07 30 Sep 20
      Highly recommend Reid Black Solicitors. David French handled my case and guided me step by step. Very fast and professional. Made my whole experience stress free. Couldn't be more thankful. 🙂
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      Highly experienced staff have helped me massively and would recommend them to anyone 10☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆
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      Worked with Karen Cox on house purchase. Fantastic service!
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      I would highly recommend Reid Black Solicitors. my experience was totally stress free and easy from the start. David handled my case in a professional manner, notifying me every step of the way. Thank you for all your hard work. A1read more
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      14:53 23 Jul 21
      Had the best service from all at Reid black from David and Karen who dealt with my claim, all in all a great service I would highly recommend this Company to anybody wanting a professional service, thankyou to everyone at your office. odyread more
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      Reid and Black were absolutely outstanding and extremely professional in their handling of my case, They were well organised, timely and informative in their updates as the case progressed. The outcome was even better than anticipated which can only be due to the excellent knowledge, tenacity and determination in seeking a satisfactory outcome. I would highly recommend their services to anyone.read more
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      Karen was wonderful and took fantastic card of us as first time buyers. Excellent service all round, thank you so much!
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      I would like to thank Reid Black solicitors for the outstanding work you have done for all the veterans who have mostly suffered in silence and would never have thought to start any sort of compensation claim against the MOD,also to find out that your firm does not take a penny from the veteran's settlement just shows the amazing integrity of Reid Black.read more
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      Just want to start off by Thanking Eilis for helping me through everything. I arrived in with very little expectations to get anywhere and I came out with exactly what I wanted, all thanks to the hard work and dedication of Eilis. When I first met Eilis she gave me the warmest reception and was fully understanding and complient with what I wanted. The best solicitors in Belfast hands down! would very highly recommend to anyone!read more
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      We would like to thank Reid Black Solicitors and specifically David French for helping us in a recent professional negligence case. His professionalism was a breath of fresh air and the positive outcome we received has been a weight off our shoulders, we would highly recommend David and his team.read more
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      A big thanks to David and the team for sorting out my hearing loss claim. Very professional, polite and efficient throughout.
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      Was recommended Reid Black by others on my claim from the MOD. From start to end this company have been brilliant in particular DF whom was personally dealing with my case. If you are looking for a professional solicitors to deal with claims against the MOD look no further. Thank you all at Reid Blackread more
      tomsturdy1
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      09:51 28 Nov 23
      I cannot recommend this firm highly enough. For any ex army out there with hearing problems please contact them. The process was easy and more importantly they do not take any money from you unlike a lot of firms that take up to 33%. I thoroughly recommend Reid Black.read more
      Wayne Perry
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      19:16 08 Dec 23
      What a fantastic group of people to work with from start to finish. I thoroughly endorse this firm of solicitors to any former service personnel who have suffered hearing loss and/or tinnitus as a result of live firing in pipe ranges in Northern Ireland. These guys acted on my behalf following a simple hearing assessment and secured a sizeable settlement from the MoD for me. They did not take ANY of my compensation in payment, but claim a separate payment directly from the MoD for their work. David even declined an initial derisory offer from the MoD and secured a much better one which was 500% (yes 500%) above the original offer. If you or you know anyone who suffers the same problems, I would urge you to get in touch with David French or one of his colleagues at Reid Black solicitors. The only downside is the amount of time you have to wait for the MoD to play ball. On the plus side you’ll probably forget you’ve claimed at all and so it’s a great surprise when you finally get a result!read more
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      05:00 12 Jan 24
      I am absolutely delighted at the result David French and the whole team at Reid Black managed to negotiate for my hearing loss claim. It was a long process, but none of that due to RB, rather the bureaucracy and feet dragging of the MoD. There was one small period of frustration on my part when I had not heard from them in a while, but it transpired that their communications with me via e-mail had gone into my spam box, that I don't regularly check, so this frustration was my fault completely. David received an initial settlement offer, but refused it and negotiated a 33% increase in the offer on my behalf. I thoroughly recommend this Business to any former service personnel that served in NI after 1987, that have suffered hearing injuries. Thank you Reid Black.read more
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      I cannot speak highly enough of Reid Black Solicitors. From start to finish, my experience with their team has been exceptional. The professionalism and expertise displayed by the solicitors at Reid Black is truly commendable. They were not only knowledgeable but also dedicated to providing personalized solutions tailored to my legal needs. The level of attention and care they demonstrated throughout the process reassured me that I was in capable hands. The communication from the firm was outstanding. I was kept informed at every step, and my questions were answered promptly. This level of transparency made the legal process much more manageable and less stressful. What sets Reid Black Solicitors apart is their commitment to client satisfaction. They went above and beyond to ensure that I felt supported and understood. The genuine concern for their clients is evident in every interaction. I would wholeheartedly recommend Reid Black Solicitors to anyone seeking legal assistance. Their professionalism, expertise, and commitment to client satisfaction make them a standout choice. Thank you to the entire team for making a potentially challenging experience smooth and successful.read more
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      Kathryn was superb throughout the process and helped me through what was a difficult period. Kathryn was always very quick to respond to my emails and on hand to answer any questions that I had. I would highly recommend the services of Kathryn and Reid Black Solicitors.read more
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      A Separation of a marriage is a really devasting and stressful time. My daughter used the services of Kathryn Aiken. Kathryn is such a lovely lady, with a real kindness and total understanding of the situation. She gave my daughter excellent legal advice and guided us safely through the whole process. Yes it did take time to finally come to an agreement on matters, but all throughout Kathryn was available to answer emails promptly or take a phone call. Nothing was ever a bother. That means a lot to have that total backing and support. We felt totally at ease meeting Kathryn at her office to sign documents and as upsetting as it sometimes was we were shown total empathy and comforted on occasions were needed. The quotation Kathryn gave me at the start of the process was near enough spot on at the end. I would not hesitate to recommend Kathryn to anyone in need of help. you are 100% in the best professional hands. I will be using Kathryn again in the future. Thank you for everything. Kerry and Naomi.read more
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      Alan Munce
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      carly field
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      09:43 17 Jun 24
      Exceptional work from this company. I have had a few issues with my hearing due to my time in the military. Didn’t expect to get as much I did. Thank you for your dedication to us all.
      Allan Rigby
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      10:30 14 Aug 24
      I reached out to Reid Black Solicitors in order to gain compensation for my hearing loss while serving in the Armed Forces. From the beginning I knew I was in the right hands. It proved to be true after a few years of legal wrangling with the MOD I received my compensation. A big thank you to David and the team, fully recommended.read more
      Helen Fox
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      15:52 01 Sep 24
      Thanks very much to David French for all his help with my hearing claim from September 2021, it did take a long while and to be honest I didn’t expect to receive anything at all. I was really shocked when he called me on Friday 30th August 2024 and I’m really pleased with my settlement. 10/10 Reid and Black. It was definitely worth the wait. Thanks again Martynread more
      Mark Hope
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      A great service from David French @ Reid Black. Resolved my hearing loss claim with the MOD without any fuss and very professional and helpful. Thank you and would definetly recommend Reid Black solicitors.read more
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      11:06 03 Oct 24
      I highly recommend this company. They helped me with a claim which resulted in a very satisfactory result. They possess an abundance of integrity which is rare in the legal world.
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      08:28 04 Oct 24
      The way Reid Black Solicitors handled this hearing claim has been efficient and professional from start to finish. Throughout the process I have been guided and advised extremely well and am completely satisfied with the result that you have gained on my behalf. I can strongly recommend Reid Black Solicitors and will be sure to speak to my colleagues who are also veterans of HM Forces.read more
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