Legal advice: Catherine Taylor of Healys LLP on Civil Partnerships

British pride

Pride is fast approaching and I am proud to live in a country where people can openly celebrate their sexuality. Sadly, in every part of the world on a daily basis gay people are arrested, beaten, impoverished and intimidated simply for being gay.

In Iraq, although homosexuality is not illegal homophobic violence is unchecked, and self-appointed sharia judges impose sentences for homosexual behaviour. Currently in India enforcement of the law against homosexual activity has currently been suspended by Court action but closer to home in Northern Cyprus homosexuality is still illegal.

“The Dutch made history in 2000 when Holland made it legal for same sex couples to marry”

On a more cheerful note there are now 11 countries where same sex marriage has been legalised, the Dutch parliament made history in 2000 when Holland made it legal for same sex couples to marry, and England should follow suit soon.

The only option open to you however, at this stage, if you are in a same sex relationship and wish to formalise that relationship would be for you to enter into a Civil Partnership. Before doing so we would strongly recommend that you consider protecting your assets should your relationship break down and have a Pre-Civil Partnership Agreement drawn up. Should you be considering to taking this course of action we would be more than happy to have a chat with you and discuss your options.

Please feel free to telephone us on 01273 685888 to discuss the above. Alternatively, you may choose to email us at either of the addresses below:
Catherine Taylor: catherine.taylor@healys.com
Kathryn Sawyer: kathryn.sawyer@healys.com