What legal rights do civil unions provide?

Civil unions provide two individuals, typically of the same gender, legal recognition of their relationship and certain associated benefits. In South Carolina, civil unions provide legal recognition of both parties’ commitment to one another and grant them a number of rights and responsibilities, including the ability to make medical decisions on behalf of their partner in an emergency. It also allows them to inherit property in the event of the other’s death, and to be able to claim the other’s Social Security benefits and pensions. In addition, civil unions also allow the two parties to have legal recourse if one partner breaches the contract by filing a lawsuit for damages. This is especially true for child custody disputes, as the court recognizes the parties involved in a civil union as a family unit. Furthermore, the couple can apply for family health insurance benefits and can obtain tax benefits from the government. These benefits may include the ability to file joint federal income tax returns, claiming a tax deduction on health insurance costs, and receiving certain tax credits and deductions. Finally, civil unions also entitle partners in a civil union to spousal support during times of distress, such as the death or disability of a partner. In these cases, the surviving partner may be eligible for special rights and entitlements, including the right to a portion of the other’s estate in the event of their death. Overall, civil unions in South Carolina provide individuals with the legal recognition and benefits of a traditional marriage, but they give the couple more freedom to define and structure their relationship. This can help partners ensure that their legal rights and obligations are respected and protected if the relationship should ever end.

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