Dissolution is the termination of a civil partnership; divorce for gay marriage.
- The couple must have have remained within the civil partnership for at least one year.
- A petition must be filed setting out reasons why the partnership should end.
- In a civil partnership where children are involved within the family, a “Statement of Arrangements”, should be filed. This should include any plans for the children after the dissolution as taken place.
It is the responsibility of the filing partner or petitioner to show proof that the civil partnership has suffered an irretrievable breakdown. The rights of a civil partner are the same as those for married couples in relation to property and children. The grounds for presenting a petition are similar to those for marriage breakdown and are:
- The other partners unreasonable behaviour
- Separation for a period of two years, with the other parties consent
- Separation for a period of five years
- Desertion by the other partner for a minimum of two years
The procedure is the same as for divorce.