Although same sex couples can now legally marry, some still opt to enter into a civil partnership. The Civil Partnership Act came into force in 2005, ensuring that civil partnerships offer same-sex couples approximately the same obligations and responsibilities as a civil marriage. Civil partners are allowed the same rights in respect of children, property, inheritance tax, social security and pension benefits. There is also a formal process for dissolving partnerships which is similar to divorce.

Our friendly team of experts are able to offer advice on a wide range of civil partnership issues including:

• Entering into a pre-registration agreement (similar to a pre-nuptial agreement)

• Terminating a civil partnership

• Financial settlements and the approach of the court

• Company or business issues

• Pensions

• Parental responsibility

• Applications for financial provision for children of the family

• Step-parent applications for parental responsibility for a child of their spouse or civil partner

Our understanding team of family experts includes:

• members of The Law Society Family Panel

• a trained collaborative lawyer.

New clients receive 30 minutes free initial advice and the first appointment available within 24 hours (where possible).