What is a civil union?

A civil union is a legal agreement between two people that creates certain legal rights and obligations similar to marriage. In the state of North Carolina, a civil union is available to couples of any gender that meet certain age and residency requirements. The law allows couples to register a civil union, notifying the state of the legal relationship, and also allows couples to obtain certain legal rights and protections that are similar to those available to married couples. This includes hospital visitation rights, inheritance rights, and the ability to make medical decisions for a partner. Civil unions do not provide many of the same federal benefits that married couples receive from the government, but it does provide partners with more rights and recognition than they would have otherwise. Civil unions can be dissolved by courts, but the process is similar to a divorce. Without a civil union, many people in committed relationships would not have access to the same rights and protections as married couples.

Related FAQs

Are civil unions recognized on health insurance benefits?
Can a civil union be converted into a marriage?
Are civil unions recognized on death certificates?
How do I dissolve a civil union?
Does a civil union allow for hospital visitation rights?
Can a civil union be dissolved without going to court?
Are there tax benefits associated with a civil union?
Is a civil union recognized for state income tax purposes?
Are there any restrictions on the number of civil unions that may be entered into?
How is a civil union different from marriage?

What is a civil union?

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