The dissolution process
The legal process for dissolving a civil partnership closely mirrors that of divorce, and since 2022 it has operated on a no-fault basis, meaning neither party needs to attribute blame or prove wrongdoing to proceed. We manage the application from start to finish, keeping you informed at each stage and making sure you understand what is happening and why, so the legal process itself does not become an additional source of stress.
Financial settlement
The financial implications of dissolving a civil partnership are treated in exactly the same way as those arising from a divorce. That means the full range of assets, including property, pensions, savings, investments, and business interests, all fall to be considered as part of the settlement. We work to reach an agreement that reflects your individual circumstances and your financial future, not simply one that divides things equally on paper.
Speak to our Financial Settlement Solicitors today.
Child arrangements
Where children are part of the family, their welfare and stability sit at the centre of everything we advise on. Civil partners have the same rights and responsibilities as married couples when it comes to child arrangements, and the legal framework is identical. We help families reach arrangements that work practically for everyone, and we handle the process with the sensitivity these situations demand.
Speak to our Child Custody Lawyers today.
Civil partnership vs marriage
Civil partnerships and marriages carry very similar legal rights and responsibilities in England and Wales, but there are some important differences that can affect how dissolution is handled in practice. The grounds for dissolution differ slightly from those for divorce, and there are areas, particularly around inheritance and pension rights, where the legal position can vary. We make sure you understand exactly where you stand before you make any decisions.
Separation agreements
If you and your partner have separated but are not yet ready to begin the formal dissolution process, a separation agreement can provide important legal protection in the interim. It sets out clearly how finances, property, and any children’s arrangements will be managed during the period of separation, and can help prevent disputes from arising while the longer-term position is resolved. We draft these carefully to make sure they reflect your actual circumstances accurately.