Civil partnershipsCivil partnerships
As from 5th December 2005, the Civil Partnership Act 2004 allows same-sex couples to obtain legal recognition of their relationship and to gain new legal status, that of civil partners. This gives same-sex couples various rights in law relating to pensions, life assurance, inheritance etc.
A couple wishing to become civil partners must give 'notice' to the Registrar in the area in which they reside. Details will be taken and displayed in the Register Office waiting-room for fifteen clear days. This is a legal requirement and it is only after the expiration of this period that the civil partnership can be registered. Registration can take place either in the Register Office or in a licensed venue. It can be very simple and can just involve the brief exchanging of vows (optional) and the signing of the civil partnership schedule in the presence of two witnesses who will add their signatures. If, however, the registration takes place in the Register Office, it can be part of a fuller ceremony at no extra charge. However, if couples choose to have a ceremony in a licensed venue then a fee will be charged for the Registrar's attendance. Ceremonies in licensed venues can be enhanced with poems, music etc.
Couples wishing to form civil partnerships must be over 16 years of age and, if under 18, must have parental consent. They must be free to form a partnership - i.e. cannot be currently married or be in another civil partnership.
Current fees are:
- Giving a civil partnership notice £33.50
- Civil Partnership registration/plus ceremony in Register Office £40
Civil Partnership registration/plus ceremony in licensed venue:
- Monday – Friday £233
- Saturday £252
- Sunday and Bank Holidays £290
Fee for certificate:
- £3.50 at time of registration
- £7.00 after registration
For further information or to book an appointment, please ring the Register Office on (01656) 642391.
- Last Updated: 10/06/2010
- Rate this page
- Back to top
