"A civil partnership ends only on death, dissolution or annulment" s1(3) CIVIL PARTNERSHIP ACT 2004

Dissolution

A civil partnership can be brought to an end where one or both partners is of the view that the relationship has irretrievably broken down.  This is known as dissolution of the civil partnership.

Annulment

A civil partnership may be treated as never having existed.  Either party may wish to apply for annulment in circumstances where

• they did not consent; or

• they are "unfitted for civil partnership" due to mental disorder; or

• an interim gender recognition certificate has been issued; or

• the other partner is pregnant by another; or

• the other partner has changed gender and they did not know of it.

A civil partnership may be invalid if the proper formalies for registration have not been complied with.

 Separation orders

If a couple do not wish to bring the relationship to an end legally, they may ask the court for a separation order although it is likely that these orders will be confined to those who seek financial provision during the first year of registration when they are not able to obtain a dissolution.

Please note that the information given in these pages is subject to change with legislation and caselaw and is intended as general guidance only, and does not purport to constitute legal advice.  You should consult a solicitor or suitably qualified practitioner to provide you with specific legal advice based upon your particular circumstances.