Civil Partnership Dissolution Solicitors
Couples of the same sex, as well as those of the opposite sex, can now choose between getting married or having a civil partnership.
Where a civil partnership has broken down, our civil partnership dissolution solicitors provide clear legal advice on the dissolution of a civil partnership, including financial arrangements and matters involving children where relevant.
Jump to section...
What is a Civil Partnership Dissolution?
A civil partnership dissolution is the legal process used to formally end a civil partnership. It applies to both same-sex and opposite-sex couples who are in a registered civil partnership and no longer wish to remain legally partnered.
Dissolving a civil partnership brings the legal relationship to an end and allows the court to consider related matters, such as financial arrangements and, where relevant, arrangements involving children. While it is sometimes informally referred to as a “civil partnership divorce”, the correct legal term is civil partnership dissolution.
Contact our civil partnership dissolution solicitors today
At Mayo Wynne Baxter, our Civil Partnership Solicitors are here to help. For a confidential and personal consultation on civil partnership dissolution, contact us today.
Our specialist civil partnership dissolution solicitors look after clients across Sussex, with offices in Brighton, Chichester, Crawley, Eastbourne, East Grinstead, Lewes, Seaford, Storrington, Tunbridge Wells as well as London.
Law change overview
In April 2022, the law changed, introducing the Divorce, Dissolution and Separation Act, to make civil partnership dissolution more straightforward and in line with the process of getting a divorce.
The Act means that now either one person or both partners can start civil partnership dissolution proceedings, without the need to apportion blame or even give a reason for ending the partnership.
Our family law solicitors in Sussex will be able to fully advise on this change to the law and any details of processes and procedures.
Where to start with dissolving your civil partnership
- Whether you want to make a joint or sole application to end your partnership
- Arrangements for looking after any children, including child maintenance payments, if applicable
- Dividing your money and your property.
Within a civil partnership, each person is entitled to make the equivalent financial claims when ending the partnership as individuals do in marriage and divorce. This means that you should consider a financial settlement as part of the dissolution to protect yourself and your individual circumstances for the future.
Further information and advice regarding arrangements for children and for dividing your assets can be found on the following pages:
You may also find it useful to contact Rainbow Families, an informal social and support group for LGBTQ+ parents and their children.
Civil partnership dissolution: The process
The legal process for ending a civil partnership closely mirrors the divorce process and is typically divided into six key stages. You can find a clear overview of each stage in our ending a civil partnership guide.
Talk to our friendly solicitors today
Or request a call back and we’ll guide you through the process
Our other civil partnership dissolution? services
Why choose Mayo Wynne Baxter
We are a family law solicitor that prioritises client care and providing expert, bespoke legal advice on all family law issues.
- Personalised and compassionate approach
- Specialist team of family law solicitors
- Strong focus on client satisfaction and accessibility
- We provide personalised advice and support throughout the whole legal process
Our Memberships and Awards
Civil Partnership Dissolution? FAQs
Yes. Financial matters can be addressed as part of the civil partnership dissolution process. This may include arrangements relating to property, savings, pensions and ongoing financial support.
A solicitor can advise on how financial issues are considered by the court and help you understand the options available to you.
You are not legally required to instruct a solicitor to dissolve a civil partnership. However, many people choose to seek advice from civil partnership dissolution solicitors to ensure the process is handled correctly and to receive guidance on financial matters, property, pensions and issues involving children.
Dissolving a civil partnership is legally similar to divorce, but it is not the same. The correct legal term is civil partnership dissolution, which applies specifically to civil partnerships rather than marriages.
Although the procedures closely mirror divorce, civil partnerships and marriages remain distinct legal relationships under UK law.
The time it takes to dissolve a civil partnership can vary depending on the circumstances of the case. In many situations, the process follows a set legal timetable, but it may take longer if financial matters or arrangements involving children need to be resolved.
A solicitor can provide guidance on likely timescales based on your individual circumstances.
A civil partnership is dissolved by making a formal application to the court to legally end the civil partnership. This legal process is known as civil partnership dissolution and follows a prescribed procedure set out in law.
A solicitor can advise on how to dissolve a civil partnership, explain the legal stages involved, and provide guidance on related matters such as finances and arrangements involving children, where relevant.
Our Latest News
Neurodiversity in the Family Justice System: A Welcome Step for Families and Practitioners
18th February 2025 read more >Congested Courts and Delayed Hearings- Why not opt for a Private FDR?
13th December 2024 read more >Key takeaways for Private Wealth Clients – 2024 Autumn Budget
31st October 2024 read more >See more articles >
Our law firm is here to help you and guide you through the legal process. We pride ourselves on providing exceptional service from outstanding people.
If you would like to speak to a member of our team, please fill out the enquiry form. We will aim to reply to your query within 4 business hours.
Need to speak to someone sooner?
Call us: 0800 84 94 101
What to Expect When You Contact Our Family Law Team
Once you have completed the enquiry form and indicated when you would like to be contacted, our family law solicitors will call you at the prearranged time to discuss your situation. This call will take place within four business hours of you contacting us. For example, if you contact us at 4.30pm on a weekday we will call you before 11.30am the next business day. Please note our offices hours are 8.30am to 5.30pm, Monday to Friday.
We offer expert, compassionate advice to help you navigate family legal matters with clarity and confidence.
Our aim is to make the process as easy and uncomplicated as possible for you.