Civil Partnership Dissolution

Civil Partnership Dissolution Solicitors in Manchester 

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Ending a civil partnership can be complicated and stressful. It's never easy, but it’s easier when you have a team of experienced family law solicitors on your side. At MSD Solicitors, we understand that life's circumstances can change, and relationships may evolve. If you find yourself at the point of considering the end of your civil partnership, we are here to provide compassionate and professional support throughout the dissolution process. Our team of experienced family law solicitors is dedicated to guiding you through this emotional journey with clarity and understanding.

With civil partnership lawyers and family law solicitors based in Manchester, Birmingham and London, we keep in close contact with our clients throughout the process. Our extensive experience in civil partnerships will provide the confidence you need to make well-informed decisions, even if they are difficult or stressful.

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What is Civil Partnership Dissolution?

Civil partnership dissolution is a legal process that formally ends a civil partnership. A civil partnership is a legal relationship between two people of the same sex, akin to marriage, granting them legal recognition of their union and providing certain rights and responsibilities.

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Just like divorce for married couples, civil partnership dissolution allows individuals to formally terminate their legal relationship when the partnership has broken down irretrievably. You can only apply to end your civil partnership if you’ve been in the partnership for over a year. 

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If you are planning on ending your civil partnership there is a formal legal process you need to comply with. Both parties should be aware of what is required at each stage of the process to minimise the risk of any unexpected problems holding up your dissolution.

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The Process of Civil Partnership Dissolution

1. Initial Consultation

The process begins with an initial consultation with one of our family law solicitors. During this meeting, we will discuss your situation, the reasons for seeking dissolution, and your desired outcomes. We will also tell you about how long the process might take, the costs involved and any other considerations you may wish to think about such as child arrangements or financial agreements. 

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2. Drafting the Dissolution Petition

Once you decide to proceed with the dissolution, we will draft the dissolution petition. This document outlines the reasons for the dissolution and presents your case to the court. You must decide whether you want to make a joint application with your partner or whether you want to apply on your own. You can apply for a sole application if your partner does not agree to end the civil partnership or you do not think your partner will cooperate or respond to notifications from the court. It normally takes at least 6 months to end a civil partnership. This is the same for joint and sole applications.

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3. Filing the Petition

Once the dissolution petition has been drafted, we will help you file this with the relevant family court. You may also need to provide required supporting documents such as your civil partnership certificate and any translations if applicable.

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4. Acknowledgment of Service

At this stage, the court serves the dissolution petition on your partner, who must acknowledge receipt of the documents. Your partner must respond to the acknowledgement of service notification within 14 days saying whether they: agree to end the civil partnership or they intend to dispute it. If they dispute the divorce, your partner will have to complete an ‘answer form’ to say why they disagree with the divorce. This must be a genuine legal reason and cannot be disputed simply because they do not want to end the civil partnership or to delay the process. 

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5. Application for Conditional Order

If your partner does not contest the dissolution, or once any contested issues are resolved, an application for a conditional order will be made to the court. If they do not submit an answer form, you can still continue the process by applying for a conditional order.

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The Conditional Order is a legal document issued by a court which is a provisional decree of dissolving the civil partnership. This is granted when the Court is satisfied that the legal and procedural requirements to end your civil partnership have been met. This is not an indication that the civil partnership has been dissolved yet, although it will outline the date your civil partnership will end. 

Once the application has been submitted, there is a minimum 20-week cooling off period before you can apply for the Conditional Order. This has been introduced to give couples time to consider their decision and make any necessary choices.

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Once the court is satisfied that the legal procedures required for dissolution have been met, a conditional order will be issued.

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6. Application for Final Order

Once a Conditional Order has been granted, you will then need to wait at least 6 weeks and one day, and you can then apply for a Final Order. Once the court is satisfied with the dissolution process, a final order (decree absolute) is issued, legally terminating the civil partnership.

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Key Considerations for Civil Partnership Dissolution

Children and Custody

If you have children, their welfare and custody arrangements are crucial considerations during the dissolution process. We can provide support and guidance in establishing child custody and visitation agreements that prioritise the children's best interests.

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Financial Settlement

Financial matters, including the division of assets and spousal maintenance, can be complex during dissolution. Our solicitors can help negotiate fair financial settlements, ensuring your financial security and future well-being.

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Emotional Well-being

We understand that civil partnership dissolution can be emotionally challenging. Our team is committed to providing empathetic support throughout the process, ensuring you feel heard and respected.

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Mediation and Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR)

Where possible, we encourage mediation and ADR as effective ways to resolve disputes amicably and avoid lengthy court battles.

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Confidentiality and Privacy

We understand the importance of maintaining privacy during such sensitive proceedings and will handle your case with utmost confidentiality.

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Get in touch with our family law solicitors

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Family law is a sensitive area and cases can significantly impact the lives of everyone involved. Our experienced family law team therefore always aim to provide a service that is sensitive to your situation. Our family solicitors are regulated by the Solicitor Regulation Authority and come with a wealth of family law experience to deal with even the most complex cases.
 
We will provide confidential legal advice that is tailored to you and your personal situation. We will do our absolute best to minimise any distress by making the process as quick and comfortable as possible. 
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At MSD Solicitors, we are dedicated to ensuring that your civil partnership dissolution is conducted with respect, dignity, and legal expertise. Our experienced family law solicitors will work closely with you to achieve a fair and mutually agreeable resolution. If you are considering civil partnership dissolution or have questions about the process, contact us today to schedule a confidential consultation. We are here to help you navigate this challenging time with care and professionalism.

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