A man and women who wish to formalise their relationship but do not wish to marry have launched a legal challenge against the ban on heterosexual couples entering into civil partnerships.
The 2004 Civil Partnership Act states that only same-sex couples can enter into civil partnerships and the couple believe that it is unfair to prevent them enjoying the status of civil partners simply because they are heterosexual.
The couple tried to enter into a civil partnership In October 2014 but were advised by the Registrar that it was not possible to perform the ceremony as they were not a same sex couple.
The couple’s lawyers have now served notice of their intention to launch a judicial review on their local council as well as the secretary of state for culture, media and sport.
The couple said “We see ourselves as partners and we are seeking a social institution that will express how we see each other. In terms of giving us legal rights and responsibilities, a civil partnership is almost identical to marriage.”
“Our objection to marriage is partly to do with its history, a union in which women were exploited for their domestic and sexual services. There are still sexist trappings to weddings: there’s only space for the father to sign on the registry form.”
“It’s almost about the social expectations of marriage: the father giving away his daughter to the groom, hen and stag events, the virginal white dresses. That’s not the type of relationship we want.”
The solicitor acting for the couple commented “This is a very important case in relation to equality, not only for heterosexual couples wishing to enter civil partnerships but to reinforce equality for women in terms of the institutions available for recognising long-term relationships.”
If you have any questions about civil partnerships or any area of family law then you should contact our friendly and experienced family team on 02920 470909.