Simple English definitions for legal terms
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Term: Civil Partnership
Definition: A civil partnership, also known as a civil union, is a legal relationship between two people that is recognized by the government. It is often between two people of the same sex and is similar to marriage. The first state to recognize civil unions was Vermont in 2000. This was done to provide the same benefits to same-sex couples as married couples.
Definition: A civil partnership, also known as a civil union, is a legally recognized relationship between two individuals, often of the same sex, that is similar to marriage and is recognized by civil authorities within a jurisdiction.
Example: In 1999, the Vermont Supreme Court ruled that denying gay couples the benefits of marriage was unconstitutional discrimination. As a result, the Vermont legislature passed a civil-unions law in 2000, which recognized civil partnerships between same-sex couples.
Explanation: The example illustrates how civil partnerships are recognized by civil authorities within a jurisdiction. In this case, the Vermont Supreme Court recognized the need to provide legal recognition and benefits to same-sex couples, leading to the creation of civil partnerships in Vermont.