Civil Partnership Dissolution

Expert Legal Support for Ending Civil Partnerships

Our experienced family law solicitors provide comprehensive guidance through civil partnership dissolution proceedings. From initial consultation to final order, we protect your rights and ensure a fair resolution. Contact us today: 0203 909 8399 | Book a Consultation

What Is Civil Partnership Dissolution?

Civil partnership dissolution is the legal process of ending a civil partnership. Similar to divorce for married couples, it formally terminates the legal relationship and addresses matters such as property division, financial support, and arrangements for children. The process ensures both parties’ rights are protected while resolving all legal obligations.

Are You Eligible for Dissolution?

You can apply for civil partnership dissolution if:

Your civil partnership has lasted at least one year
The partnership has irretrievably broken down
You can prove one of the legal grounds
You or your partner live in England or Wales

Understanding Civil Partnerships

Key Features

Legal recognition for same-sex couples only
Provides similar rights to marriage
Creates legal and financial obligations
Affects inheritance and property rights
Impacts parental responsibilities

Registration Requirements

To register a civil partnership, you must:

Both be 16 or over (parental consent needed if under 18)
Have lived in the same area for at least seven days
Not be married or in another civil partnership
Not be closely related by blood

Grounds for Dissolution

Unreasonable Behaviour

Your partner has behaved in ways including:

Physical or mental cruelty
Verbal or physical abuse
Financial irresponsibility
Sexual infidelity
Addiction issues

Desertion

Your partner has left you:

Without your agreement
Without good reason
With intention to end the relationship
For more than 2 years in the past 2.5 years
Living together up to 6 months doesn’t affect this

Separation with Consent

Living apart for more than 2 years
Both agree to dissolution
Written consent required
Can live in same property if separate lives

Separation without Consent

Living apart for more than 5 years
No partner consent needed
Dissolution granted even if partner objects
Rarely challenged successfully

The Dissolution Process

Step 1: Initial Application

File dissolution petition
State grounds for breakdown
Provide supporting evidence
Pay court fees

Step 2: Conditional Order

Court reviews application
Partner responds to petition
Judge considers grounds
Provisional order granted

Step 4: Final Order

Apply after 6 weeks minimum
Partnership legally ended
Financial orders finalized
New legal status confirmed

Financial Matters

Asset Division

Property and home ownership
Savings and investments
Pension sharing
Business interests
Debt responsibilities

Ongoing Support

Maintenance payments
Child support arrangements
Insurance policies
Tax implications

Children in Civil Partnership Dissolution

Parental Responsibility – Legal rights and duties toward children
Residence Arrangements – Where children will live
Contact Schedule – Time with each parent
Financial Support – Child maintenance obligations
Decision Making – Education, health, and welfare choices

Legal Differences from Divorce

No adultery ground available
Same-sex couples only
Different ceremony requirements
Some religious exemptions don’t apply
International recognition varies

Why Choose Connaught Law

Specialist civil partnership solicitors
Sensitive handling of personal matters
Expert financial negotiators
Child-focused approach
LGBTQ+ friendly practice

Our Services Include

Initial consultation and advice
Document preparation and filing
Financial disclosure assistance
Negotiation and mediation
Court representation
Post-dissolution modifications

Next Steps

Navigate civil partnership dissolution with confidence. Our expert family law team provides the clarity and support you need during this challenging time. We’ll guide you through every step while protecting your interests. Call 0203 909 8399 or Book Online for a confidential consultation.