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
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.
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 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 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
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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