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Register a civil partnership

The Civil Partnership Act 2004, which applies throughout the UK, came into force on 5th December 2005.  The Act allows same-sex couples to make a formal, legal commitment to each other by entering into a 'civil partnership' through a statutory civil registration procedure.  The process brings a range of new rights and responsibilities to those involved.

There is no need for couples to have a formal ceremony - the registration can be as simple as appearing at a Registrar's office with two witnesses, and signing the official documentation.  Where a more detailed ceremony is preferred, this can be arranged with the Registrar.

Civil Partnership Registration

You must contact the Registrar as soon as you have decided on your preferred date to ensure that a Registrar will be available.  A civil partnership registration can take place at any office.  The registration will take the form of a declaration made in the presence of the Registrar and two witnesses who must be 16 years of age or over.

If you are planning to enter a civil partnership in the UK and you are subject to Immigration Control you will require to contact the Home Office.  It is important that you contact the Registrar as soon as possible for advice.

Rights and Responsibilities arising

Through confirming a civil partnership, couples can gain important rights and responsibilities, for example, the provisions in the Act include:

  • employment and pension benefits
  • recognition under intestacy rules
  • access to fatal accidents compensation
  • recognition for immigration and nationality purposes
  • a duty to provide reasonable maintenance for your civil partner and any children of the family
  • civil partners to be assessed in the same way as spouses for child support
  • equitable treatment for the purposes of life assurance

Once you have entered into a Civil Partnership, you should also be aware that changes will apply to the points listed below:

  • Inheritance Tax
  • Existing Will(s)
  • Corporation Tax
  • Capital Gains Tax
  • Tax Credits

Civil Partnership Ceremony

A civil partnership ceremony has the same legal requirements as the above registration.  However, the ceremony is more unique to yourselves as the registration staff can provide a more tailor made ceremony to suit your needs and can perform your ceremony at an approved venue within the Stirling Council registration area or at the registration office in Stirling.  You can include readings, poems, exchange of rings / gifts as part of your ceremony.  You may also be offered a choice of music.