Civil Partnership Dissolution & Family Law Advice – Solicitors Manchester
Civil partnerships and same-sex marriages are recognised under UK law and provide couples with many of the same legal rights and responsibilities as marriage.
However, when a civil partnership or same-sex marriage unfortunately breaks down, complex legal and financial issues may arise.
At TM Fortis Solicitors, our experienced family law solicitors provide specialist legal advice to same-sex couples and civil partners across Manchester and the surrounding areas. We assist clients with matters including civil partnership dissolution, financial settlements, property disputes and agreements to protect assets.
Our aim is to provide clear, practical legal advice and to help clients resolve disputes in a constructive and efficient manner.
Civil Partnerships in UK Law
Civil partnerships were introduced in the UK under the Civil Partnership Act 2004, allowing same-sex couples to formalise their relationship and obtain legal recognition similar to marriage.
Civil partners benefit from many of the same legal rights and obligations as married couples, including rights relating to:
- Property and financial assets
- Pensions and inheritance
- Tax benefits
- Parental responsibility for children
However, these legal rights also mean that when a civil partnership ends, financial and legal issues must be properly addressed.
Dissolving a Civil Partnership
If a civil partnership breaks down, it may be necessary to apply to the court for a civil partnership dissolution order, which is the legal process used to formally end a civil partnership.
The dissolution process is similar to divorce proceedings.
To obtain a dissolution order, it must be shown that the civil partnership has irretrievably broken down.
Applications can usually be made either individually or jointly under the current divorce and dissolution procedures.
Our family law solicitors can guide you through every stage of the dissolution process and ensure that the necessary legal requirements are met.
Financial Settlements Following Civil Partnership Breakdown
As with divorce, the end of a civil partnership can give rise to financial claims between the parties.
Financial matters that may need to be addressed include:
- Division of property
- Savings and investments
- Pension sharing
- Spousal maintenance
- Business interests
- Financial provision for children
The court has wide powers to determine financial settlements between civil partners where agreement cannot be reached.
Our family law solicitors can assist clients in negotiating financial settlements or representing them in financial remedy proceedings where necessary.
Property Disputes Between Civil Partners
Disputes often arise regarding the family home or jointly owned property.
Issues that may need to be resolved include:
- Whether the property should be sold
- Whether one partner should buy out the other’s share
- How the proceeds of sale should be divided
- Whether one partner should remain in the property, particularly where children are involved
Our solicitors can advise on property rights and assist in negotiating fair arrangements or pursuing legal remedies through the court.
Financial Agreements for Civil Partners
Just as with marriage, couples entering into a civil partnership may wish to consider the financial implications of the relationship and take steps to protect their assets.
In some circumstances, couples may wish to enter into pre-partnership or post-partnership agreements, which can help clarify financial arrangements and protect certain assets.
These agreements may address matters such as:
- Ownership of property
- Protection of pre-existing assets
- Business interests
- Inheritance considerations
While such agreements are not automatically binding, courts may take them into account when determining financial settlements if they have been properly prepared.
Resolving Disputes Amicably
Where possible, it is often beneficial for couples to resolve disputes through negotiation or mediation rather than through court proceedings.
Resolving disputes outside court can often:
- Reduce legal costs
- Reduce emotional stress
- Encourage constructive solutions
Our family law solicitors aim to assist clients in reaching amicable settlements wherever possible while ensuring that their legal rights are protected.
When Court Proceedings May Be Necessary
If agreement cannot be reached, it may be necessary to apply to the Family Court for financial orders or other remedies.
Our solicitors can represent clients throughout court proceedings and assist with:
- Civil partnership dissolution applications
- Financial remedy proceedings
- Property disputes
- Pension sharing arrangements
We will guide you through the process and provide clear advice at every stage.
How TM Fortis Solicitors Can Help
Our experienced family law solicitors regularly assist clients with a wide range of matters affecting same-sex couples and civil partners, including:
- Civil partnership dissolution
- Financial settlements following separation
- Property disputes
- Financial agreements before or during a civil partnership
- Child arrangements and financial provision for children
We provide professional, confidential legal advice tailored to your individual circumstances.
Contact Our Family Law Solicitors
If you require advice regarding civil partnerships, dissolution proceedings or financial disputes following separation, our experienced family law solicitors at TM Fortis Solicitors in Manchester can assist you.
Contact TM Fortis Solicitors today on 0161 220 6040 to arrange an initial consultation and discuss your circumstances.
