Undecided?

What happens if we don't register our partnership?

Many couples may decide they do not want to register their partnership, although there are many advantages in doing so. It is quite a strange situation that same sex couples now find themselves in, having not had the opportunity to enter into such a legally binding commitment ceremony before. In general, the legal position of couples who do not want to legally formalise their relationships by registering a Civil Partnership, will be affected in terms of income related benefit claims. If you live with your same-sex partner, your legal rights could be affected, even if you have not entered a Civil Partnership. The rights that could be affected may include housing and other welfare benefits.

Living in sin!

Same sex couples who are living together (cohabiting) but who do not wish to have a Civil Partnership can still get legal protection. Purchasing a home together is probably one of the more major things couples invest in together. Couples who are not civil partners can draw up with their Solicitor, a Declaration of Trust dealing with their interest in the property and if appropriate, a Cohabitation Agreement, dealing with issues such as land, property and finance.