Legal Definitions - civil union partners

Civil union partners are individuals who have entered into a legally recognized relationship that provides many, but often not all, of the rights, benefits, and responsibilities typically associated with marriage. This legal status was historically established in various jurisdictions to offer legal protections and recognition to couples, particularly same-sex couples, at a time when marriage was not legally available to them. While the specific rights granted to civil union partners can vary significantly by location, they commonly include aspects like inheritance rights, shared property ownership, healthcare decision-making, and certain employment benefits.

Following the nationwide legalization of same-sex marriage in the United States, the formation of new civil unions has become less common, though existing civil unions generally remain valid and continue to confer legal status and rights upon the partners.

• Example 1: Inheritance Rights

  In 2006, David and Michael entered into a civil union in a state that recognized such partnerships. Years later, David passed away without a will. Because they were civil union partners, Michael was legally recognized as David's surviving partner and was entitled to inherit a portion of David's estate, similar to how a spouse would, even in the absence of a will. This demonstrates how civil union status provided crucial legal protections regarding inheritance.

• Example 2: Employment Benefits

  Sarah and Emily formed a civil union in their home state in 2011. Emily's employer offered a comprehensive benefits package that included health insurance coverage for employees' spouses and legally recognized domestic partners. Due to their civil union status, Sarah was eligible to be added to Emily's employer-sponsored health insurance plan, receiving the same benefits as a married spouse. This illustrates how civil union partners could access employment-related benefits.

• Example 3: Parental Rights and Legal Recognition

  Before same-sex marriage was legal nationwide, Alex and Ben entered a civil union in a jurisdiction that granted civil union partners the right to jointly adopt children. They successfully adopted a child together, and both Alex and Ben were legally recognized as parents on the child's birth certificate and in all legal documents. This shows how civil union status conferred significant legal recognition, including parental rights, allowing them to form a legally recognized family unit.