Under the Civil Partnership Act of 2004, same-sex couples have been entitled to legally register their relationship. By doing so, it offers the same legal rights and responsibilities as a civil marriage across a range of matters, such as inheritance, pensions, child maintenance and life assurance and is exclusively for same-sex couples.
As with civil marriages, couples entering into a civil partnership must give at least 28 days notice at their local register office. The partnership becomes legal once both parties and their witnesses have signed the registration certificate, however, this does not need to be signed during an official ceremony. It allows the couple to enter into a partnership on a private basis, where no official vows are recited.
For many, the reasoning behind the conversion of a civil partnership is primarily due to labels rather than legal implications and the desire to be included and accepted within a society. However, in countries where same sex marriage is legal, civil partnership is not a recognised custom and therefore couples living abroad are not entitled to the same rights as if they were married.
Religion
With over a third of British couples still opting for a religious aspect of their day, the option sadly isn’t always there for same-sex couples as some religions are explicitly banned from performing same sex marriage. The governing body of a religious organsiation can opt in and consent to same-sex marriages but must continue to act in accordance with their doctrines and beliefs.
In these circumstances, a religious marriage of a same-sex couple will only be possible if an individual minister is willing to conduct the marriage and the premises has been registered for marriages of same sex couples.
Converting a Partnership
The process of converting a civil partnership into a marriage is a relatively simple one. You may either do this at a register office, with or without a ceremony or at a religious or licensed venue where same-sex marriage has been approved.
You will need to pay for a marriage certificate, the date on which will read the when your civil partnership was formed.
Make an appointment at your local register office with the superintendent registrar. You will then sign the ‘conversion to marriage’ declaration and can follow this with a ceremony in which you may recite vows.
Your friends and family can attend the ceremony but witnesses are not required.
Clik here to view.
