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Civil Partnerships and your Will

The 3 million opposite sex couples that are cohabitating, but are not married, now have the option of a civil partnership, rather than a marriage should they prefer. This will allow them to benefit from the rights married couples enjoy.

But don’t forget about your will!

It should be noted, as when partners marry, entering into a civil partnership means the parties existing wills are automatically revoked, so new wills should be made. Also, as when partners divorce, dissolving a civil partnership does not automatically revoke your existing will, rather the will is read as if your former civil partner has been removed from the will. This only applies from the date of the order dissolving the civil partnership.

If you are not married or in a civil partnership, then your partner is not legally entitled to anything when you die.

Just a reminder that if you are living with someone and do not have a will already, or your relationship status is changing for any reason, you must consider reviewing your existing will or making one for the first time.

Contact the Wills experts

Overall, it is imperative that you seek advice regarding your Will after divorce or separation. The above is only a guide and further advice should be sought from one of our solicitors who can assist you further.

If you want to ensure that your estate is divided according to your wishes, please do not hesitate to contact our Head of Wills and Probate, Alex Rivers.