Civil Partnership Act

on 5 December 2005 the Civil Partnership Act came into force.  This means that same-sex couples can now make a formal legal commitment to each other by forming a Civil Partnership, thereby gaining legal recognition for their relationship.

All local authorities are required to provide this service.

Civil Partnerships can take place at a Register Office or any of the premises that are currently approved for marriage ceremonies.

Each prospective partner will need to give formal notice in the area that they have lived for the last seven days, and will be asked to state the place chosen for the Civil Partnership to be celebrated. There will be a 15 day waiting period before the registration can take place.

It is not necessary to have a ceremony as part of the procedure.  However, in Warrington couples will be offered the opportunity to enhance the registration by including a ceremony if they wish to do so.

The Superintendent Registrar and staff at Warrington are on hand to provide further information and answer any queries you may have.  You may also wish to visit the General Register Office website.

You can contact the Register Office on 01925 442762 or email jbriscall@warrington.gov.uk