Legal Definitions - domestic-partnership period

The domestic-partnership period refers to the specific timeframe during which two individuals, recognized as domestic partners, continuously share a primary residence. This period begins the moment they establish a shared home and concludes when they no longer live together in that primary residence. This concept is often relevant in legal contexts concerning benefits, property division, or support obligations that may arise from such a relationship.

Here are some examples illustrating the domestic-partnership period:

• Example 1: Relationship Dissolution

  Sarah and Michael decide to move in together on January 1, 2019, sharing an apartment. They live together continuously until September 30, 2022, when they decide to separate, and Michael moves out into his own place.

  In this scenario, the domestic-partnership period for Sarah and Michael began on January 1, 2019, when they started living together. It ended on September 30, 2022, the day Michael moved out and they stopped sharing their primary residence.

• Example 2: Permanent Relocation for Work

  Liam and Chloe have been living together in their shared home since March 15, 2017. In November 2021, Chloe accepts a new job in a different state and permanently moves out of their shared residence to establish a new home closer to her work. Liam continues to live in their original home.

  Their domestic-partnership period started on March 15, 2017. It concluded in November 2021, when Chloe permanently moved out and they ceased sharing the same primary residence, even though Liam continued to live there.

• Example 3: Change in Living Needs

  Eleanor and Robert have lived together in their house since May 1, 2008. In February 2023, Robert's health declines significantly, requiring him to move into a long-term care facility permanently. Eleanor continues to live in their shared house.

  The domestic-partnership period for Eleanor and Robert began on May 1, 2008. It ended in February 2023, when Robert moved into the care facility, signifying that they no longer shared the same primary residence.