Civil Partnership Dissolution

In the same way married couples can seek a divorce, civil partners can seek dissolution of their relationships.

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Civil Partnership Dissolution

In the same way married couples can seek a divorce, civil partners can seek dissolution of their relationships. Although different, they do mirror each other insofar as the information and remedies available to divorcing couples are also largely available to civil partners.

From the first approach through to getting your final dissolution order, we’ll be with you every step of the way. The end of a relationship can be a stressful and emotional time for all parties concerned, with the likelihood that you will have to make difficult decisions about your home, children and dividing your assets.

Our experienced family law team comprises of accredited experts, collaborative lawyers and trained mediators. They are able to offer advice on your situation, enabling you to make an informed decision about how to proceed.

Depending on whether you need to negotiate, collaborate, mediate, or litigate, we will partner you with the best person to resolve your case. They will be available to answer any questions you may have, keep you up to date on any developments and make you aware of the legal costs involved.

We take pride in resolving a situation through communication, not confrontation. We are members of Resolution, the specialist family law association for family justice professionals which is recognised for its constructive approach to family problems committed to reducing conflict. As such, we discourage unnecessary arguments or costs and instead put our efforts into providing straightforward advice and minimising the strain that proceedings place on you.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is civil partnership dissolution the same as divorce?

No, a dissolution order will legally end a civil partnership whereas a divorce aka final order of divorce, will legally end a marriage. However, it is similar to the extent that for the most part all information in relation to marriage breakdown applies equally to civil partners.

On what grounds can you dissolve a civil partnership?

There is only one ground upon which you can dissolve a civil partnership similarly to divorce – that the partnership has irretrievably broken down.

Can I dissolve a civil partnership to get married?

No, as the ground for dissolution is irretrievable breakdown. However, if you are a same-sex couple you will be able to convert your civil partnership into a marriage in England and Wales. You will get a marriage certificate dated when your civil partnership was formed.

Can I enter into a pre-nup with a civll partnership?

No but Civil partners can enter into pre-registration agreements which regulates your rights and obligations towards each other and details what should happen if your relationship breaks down.

Does a civil partnership override a will?

You will need to make a new Will after you receive the final dissolution order as certain provisions in the Will will no longer work. You can speak to our private client team about making a will after separation.

What makes a civil partnership void?

A civil partnership will be void if certain conditions have not been met. On these occasions, you will be able to end your civil partnership through an annulment. These conditions are:

Either party was under the age of 18 at the time of the civil partnership.
Required formalities not complied with.
Both parties are not already married or in a civil partnership (Bigamy); and
The parties are too closely related.

Please speak to our family law solicitors if you think annulment is an option for you.

What is judicial separation?

Judicial separation does not legally end a relationship in the same way as a divorce or dissolution, but it does formalise the arrangements at the end of a marriage/civil partnership and end the “marital obligations”. Please get in touch with our Family Law Team to see whether this option is right for you.

What are the requirements for a judicial separation?

The legal requirements for obtaining a judicial separation order for civil partners and same sex married partners are broadly the same as for opposite sex married partners. The only difference relates to the jurisdictional criteria. Therefore please seek specialist advice from our family law team to advise whether you meet these requirements.

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I worked with Graeme Fraser during the processing of my divorce filings. I found Graeme a measured person with wise counsel. I thoroughly recommend him to anyone faced with navigating what is for many a difficult and fraught journey. He handles difficult conversations with care and sensitivity and an appropriate amount of humor.

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Needing a lawyer in a different country was a bit overwhelming living in the US. Graeme Fraser and Gemma Barnhurst were lovely to work with. They put me at ease and provided good counsel. I am glad I was referred to BBS Law by a friend and would recommend them to anyone else needing similar services.