5. Civil Partnerships
From 5th December 2005, same sex couples have been able to enter into Civil Partnerships. Prior to entering into a Civil Partnership, you may wish to consider entering into a Pre-Partnership Agreement to protect your assets and we are able to advise you on this.
The end of a civil partnership is a traumatic time for all couples. People have to deal with heightened emotions as well as the stress of managing their everyday lives and dealing with joint matters with their former partners which can include contact with Children and Financial Settlements.
At Courtyard Solicitors LLP, we aim to help our clients through this difficult time by dealing with these matters on your behalf in a ympathetic, efficient and professional manner.
Whichever party we are acting for, we will provide to you an excellent and understanding service.
Dissolution proceedings can only be issued one year after the date of the civil partnership. If the civil partnership has broken down within the first year, the time leading up to this period can be used to start resolving matters concerning children and finances.
Generally, it takes between 6 to 12 months to complete a dissolution and all other outstanding issues.
In the event of a breakdown of the relationship, the Civil Partnership can be dissolved in a similar way to a divorce for married couples; however there are some differences which we can advise you on.
Dissolution of a civil partnership affects the parties? rights under an existing will and therefore you should review your will and our Wills and Probate Department will be able to advise you on this and prepare a will on your behalf. If you do not have a will, you should consider to whom you wish to leave your property and again, we are able to assist you in preparing it.