What is Civil Partnership? 

• Civil Partnership is a new legal relationship for lesbian and gay couples, aged 16 and over (parental consent required until 18).  It will enable same-sex couples to gain legal recognition of their relationship
• Couples would enter Civil Partnerships with their local Register Office or ‘approved premises’ (hotels etc)
• Each partner would have to sign the Register in the presence of the Registrar and two witnesses. Couples may opt for a quiet signing of the Register only, or may choose a ceremony in front of family and friends
• There would also be a formal, court-based process for dissolving the Partnership. 

Some of the main Partnership Rights 

• Social security and pension benefits, including right to benefit from a dead partner’s pension
• Recognition under inheritance rules
• Ability to succeed to tenancy rights
• Next-of-kin visiting rights in hospital
• Ability to gain parental responsibility for each others children
• Right to register the death of a Partner 

For those couples living in Bournemouth, for more information or to book your ceremony please contact us on 01202 454947 or 01202 454629, email weddings or contact:

The Register Office

Town Hall

Bourne Avenue

Bournemouth

BH2 6DY