Civil Partnership Dissolution

JMW’s family law solicitors specialise in civil partnership dissolution, helping couples understand the legal implications of entering into a civil partnership and guiding them through the uncomfortable process of dissolution.

If you need to speak to a qualified family law solicitor about civil partnership dissolution or any other aspect of civil partnership law, contact the team at JMW on 0800 652 5577 or complete our contact form.

Grounds for Dissolution

In order to end a civil partnership, certain grounds for dissolution must be met. The applicant must satisfy the court that the union has irretrievably broken down. If you seek dissolution, you will be required to demonstrate one of the following:

• your partner has behaved in such a manner that continuation of the relationship is deemed unreasonable;
• you and your partner have lived apart for more than two years, and both now agree to the dissolution;
• you and your partner have been separated for more than five years where only one partner is seeking dissolution; or
• your partner deserted you over two years ago.

Unlike marriage, adultery is not recognised as grounds for ending a civil partnership agreement as the legal definition of adultery is as being between heterosexual adults. However, unfaithfulness' may be recognised as a form of unreasonable behaviour.

Financial Issues Following Dissolution

JMW’s civil partnership dissolution solicitors can help you make financial orders to cover issues such as transfer of property, lump sum payments, pension sharing, maintenance payments, and maintenance orders for children.

When deciding the terms of a financial settlement, the court will consider:

• Welfare of children;
• Each partner's financial situation in terms of earnings, assets and resources;
• Financial requirements and obligations of each partner;
• The family's standard of living prior to the breakdown of the relationship;
• The duration of the civil partnership and age of each of the partners;
• Any disabilities of persons within the union;
• Contributions made by each partner to the welfare, upkeep and care of home and family;
• Any nefarious conduct that it would be irresponsible to ignore; and,
• Any disadvantages that would be caused to either party as a result of the ending of the civil partnership.

Civil Partnership Dissolution Advice from JMW Solicitors

The family law solicitors at JMW will be happy to provide some initial advice and guidance on civil partnership dissolution and any financial or child maintenance issues you may be concerned about.

For a no-obligation discussion regarding your civil partnership dissolution please call us on 0800 652 5577 or complete our contact form and we will get back to you.