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Guilherme Mazui

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What is the Difference Between Marriage and Civil Partnership?

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The main difference between marriage and civil partnership lies in the legal recognition and protections they offer. Here are the key differences:

  1. Legal Recognition: Marriage is recognized by both federal and state governments, while civil partnerships are only recognized at the state level, and not all states recognize them.
  2. Declaration of Vows: In a marriage, couples must make a declaration of marriage vows, which is not required for civil partnerships.
  3. Termination: A civil partnership can be ended without the involvement of the courts if there are no children under 18, while a marriage can only be dissolved by a court.
  4. Religious Ceremony: Marriage can be performed in a religious ceremony, whereas civil partnerships are formed by signing a civil partnership certificate.

Despite these differences, civil partnerships and marriages share many of the same benefits, rights, and obligations, such as maintenance, inheritance rights, and property arrangements. Ultimately, the choice between marriage and civil partnership depends on personal preference and the specific legal protections and benefits offered by each option in your jurisdiction.

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  • What is the Difference Between Marriage and Civil Partnership?
  • Comparative Table: Marriage vs Civil Partnership

    • Comparative Table: Marriage vs Civil Partnership

    Here is a table comparing the differences between marriage and civil partnership:

    Marriage Civil Partnership
    Formed by vows Formed by signing the civil partnership document
    Can be conducted through a civil or religious ceremony The formation of a civil partnership is an entirely civil event. Couples can choose to add a ceremony (religious or not) to follow the formation of their civil partnership
    Notice of marriage is given by each party in the registration district in which they have lived for the previous seven days Notice of civil partnership is given by each partner anywhere within the local authority in which they live
    The details of marriages are recorded in an electronic register The details of civil partnerships are recorded in an electronic register
    Marriage certificates include the names of both parents of the parties Civil partnership certificates include the names of both parents of the parties
    Marriage is ended by divorce, by obtaining a decree of divorce from the court Civil partnerships can also be ended by obtaining a dissolution order from the court, although the process is slightly different from divorce

    Both marriage and civil partnership are legal unions that provide couples with various legal rights and protections. The main differences between the two are the way they are formed and the ceremonies associated with them.

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    Guilherme Mazui

    Guilherme Mazui is graduated in journalism from the Federal University of Minas Gerais (UFMG) and a master's degree in Communication from the University of São Paulo (USP). In addition, he has experience in advertising writing and has worked as a content editor in several companies.