Although this web site refers almost exclusively to divorce and to the rights of a divorcing couple in respect of finances, children, wills etc it should not be forgotten that the Civil Partnership Act 2004 came into force on 5th December 2005.

The rights of civil partners are essentially the same as married couples. In the event that a civil partner seeks the dissolution of the partnership then the rights of each former partner are analogous to the rights of an ex spouse.

Also, just as marriages contracted outside the UK may be recognised here so may certain civil partnerships entered into outside the UK be recognised in England as civil partnerships here.

Rather than refer to 'spouse or civil partner' throughout this website we have referred to 'spouse' or 'ex spouse' but is should be remembered that since 5th December 2005 the term 'spouse' may also be taken to include 'civil partner' within the context of this site.