Mixed-sex civil partnerships

For years there has been an imbalance between the options of unions for same-sex couples, against the limited choice for mixed-sex couples.  Mixed-sex couples have not, until now, had the option to choose whether to formalise their union by civil partnership or by marriage.  That has now changed. 

From 2 December 2019 mixed-sex couples in England and Wales can now register their interest to enter into a civil partnership.  Once notice has been given to enter into a civil partnership, the couple have to wait 28 days until the partnership can be registered.  Couples that registered their interest on 2 December 2019, will be able to enjoy their civil partnership status from New Year’s Eve. 

Civil partnerships were introduced for same-sex couples in 2004.  They created legally recognised relationships between two same-sex people, with many of the same benefits as marriage, including tax, pensions and inheritance, but without the religious connotations of marriage.  Under The Civil Partnership (Opposite-sex Couples) Regulations 2019, mixed-sex couples can now enter into civil partnerships as an alternative to the institution of marriage.  The partnership provides very similar financial protection and legal status as that afforded by marriage, which they would not obtain as a cohabiting couple, but without the religious ceremony or beliefs associated with marriage.

If you have any queries about this article please contact jonesnickolds on 0203 405 2300 or contact@jonesnickolds.co.uk