Civil
Unions
The Three Most-Frequently Asked Questions About Civil
Unions
- Are Civil Union Partners Afforded The Same Protections As
Marriage Partners?
- What Is The Difference Between Domestic Partnerships And Civil
Unions?
- How Do I End A Civil Union?
1. Are Civil Union
Partners Afforded The Same Protections As Marriage Partners?
Under New Jersey law, Civil Union (CU) partners are afforded the same protections as
marriage partners.
However, Federal law does not recognize CUs in the same way. For Federal taxation
purposes, CU partners are not afforded any of the benefits of marriage partners. In
addition, CU partners are not eligible to receive derivative Social Security benefits.
2. What Is The Difference Between
Domestic Partnerships and Civil Unions?
Partners who have entered a Domestic Partnership (DP) do not have all of the same
benefits and protections under New Jersey law as those who have entered a CU. If you wish
to have those protections, you must follow the required procedures for obtaining a CU.
3. How Do I End A Civil Union?
A CU can be ended in the same way as a marriage - by the filing of a complaint for
dissolution of the CU. Dissolution of CU complaints is handled by the Family Part of the
Superior Court of New Jersey. Each dissolution case has different issues, but many will
involve issues of child custody, parenting time, support, equitable distribution of assets
and debts acquired during union.
To speak with a New Jersey Divorce Lawyer, call 973-455-1220. |
