Seek legal advice before dissolving civil partnership warns Law Society

As the number of dissolved civil partnerships rises by twenty percent, legal experts at the Law Society are advising same-sex couples to seek legal advice before breaking up.

IT may not be labelled as a ‘divorce’ but dissolving a civil partnership has the same legal ramifications as ending a marriage.

Many people ending civil partnerships may be surprised to learn their soon to be ex-partner has a claim on half their assets. Because civil partnerships are relatively new, some people may be unaware of what their obligations are when they enter into one.

In the eyes of the law, it is the same as ending a marriage and has all the social rights and responsibilities that come with it.

Many couples had a pre-civil agreement, or ‘pre-cip’ in place before they registered their civilpartnership. This is the equivalent of pre-nuptial agreements.

Pre-cips are a sensible way to protect your financial position in the event of separation. A family lawyer can assist you in drafting one.

Law Society president Andrew Caplen, said: “Taking independent legal advice from a solicitor is the best way to ensure a fair outcome when ending a civil partnership or marriage.

“This is especially important where dependents are involved. A solicitor will present you with the best course of action and work with you to resolve the situation as amicably as possible.

“We always advise people to have a pre-cip or pre-nup in place. That way, if the worst does happen, it is easier to progress. If you do not have one, take legal advice as soon as possible.”