Domestic Partnership

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In certain states, unmarried couples may register as domestic partners in order to make arrangements regarding property and financial support and to obtain specific benefits and legal rights. A domestic partnership is essentially a legal arrangement between two people who live together but are not legally joined by marriage. Although some states have implemented domestic partnership laws as a way of recognizing same-sex unions, they may apply to different-sex or same-sex couples alike.

Why consider a domestic partnership? In some jurisdictions, people who live together and have established a meaningful relationship may turn to a domestic partnership as an alternative when they are not able to legally marry. Some couples register as domestic partners as a way to reach legal arrangements related to property, support and other issues frequently associated with marriage. If you're interested in applying for a domestic partnership or would like to learn more about your state's laws regarding this topic, please feel free to use our directory to find a local family lawyer.