Civil Unions and Divorce

In recent years, the gay marriage debate has centered on whether gay couples should be allowed to enter into civil unions. Civil unions are similar to marriages in that the individuals in the union are treated as an entity and receive certain benefits as a result.

Since they are similar to marriages, civil unions require a divorce when the relationship breaks down. If you and your partner want to dissolve your civil union, contact the San Jose divorce lawyers of the Law Office of Daniel Jensen, P.C. at 408-296-4100 to discuss your situation with an experienced legal professional.

Civil Union Divorce Procedure

Much like in a divorce from a marriage, divorce from a civil union requires both parties to fill out divorce papers. Unlike a marriage, the divorce from a civil union must be filed in the city where the civil union was granted.

The reason why the divorce must be filed in the place the union was granted is that civil unions are only recognized by the state in which the union was granted. This differs from marriage, which is recognized anywhere in the United States.

The only grounds for a civil union divorce are irreconcilable differences or the mental incompetence of one of the partners. Both sides must then agree on division of property and debts, child custody, and child support.

Contact Us

Divorce is never an easy procedure, especially when it results from a civil union. If you and your partner want to dissolve your civil union, the experienced San Jose divorce attorneys of the Law Office of Daniel Jensen, P.C. will handle your case with care. Contact us today at 408-296-4100 for more information.