What is a civil partnership?

A civil partnership is a formal, legally binding relationship created by signing a document in front of a registrar and two witnesses. It provides the same legal status, rights, and protections as marriage, including inheritance, tax, and pension benefits, but is not a religious ceremony. The process is identical to a civil marriage: both partners must give notice at a register office at least 28 days before the ceremony, and the ceremony itself takes place in a register office or an approved venue. The minimum age to form a civil partnership is 18. Unlike a religious ceremony, a civil partnership cannot include any religious readings or hymns, though non-religious readings, poems, or music are permitted if the registrar agrees. It is a popular choice for couples who want legal recognition without a religious element, or for same-sex couples who may prefer the term 'partnership' over 'marriage'.