What legal rights do civil unions provide?
Civil unions provide a legal recognition of a committed relationship between two individuals, usually of the same sex. In Tennessee, civil unions are recognized by law as a form of “domestic partnership.” This means that two individuals who enter into a civil union are granted certain rights and protections which are similar to those provided by marriage. The most basic legal right provided by civil unions is the right to visitation in hospitals, jails, and correctional facilities. This means that an individual in a civil union has the right to visit their partner in times of medical or legal need. Other rights include the right to inherit from a partner in the event of death, the ability to make medical decisions on behalf of their partner, the ability to use their partner’s insurance, the right to joint adoption, and the right to joint creation of wills and trusts. In addition, some civil unions provide similar tax benefits to those provided by marriage. Through civil unions, individuals are able to obtain the legal recognition and protection of a committed relationship. While civil unions may not offer all of the same rights as a marriage, they provide important rights that can provide support and security for those in civil unions.
Related FAQs
Are there any tax implications to a civil union?Is a civil union recognized for student loan benefits?
Are there any legal restrictions on civil unions?
Are there any requirements for proving a civil union in court?
What legal rights do civil unions provide?
Are civil unions recognized in other countries' laws?
Can a civil union provide for child custody or support?
Are there tax benefits associated with a civil union?
Are civil unions recognized in the federal and state court systems?
Is a civil union recognized in public sector benefits?
Related Blog Posts
Explaining Civil Union Laws: An Overview of How They Work - July 31, 2023Civil Union Laws: What You Need to Know Before Entering into One - August 7, 2023
Estate Planning Considerations for Couples in a Civil Union - August 14, 2023
Benefits and Disadvantages of Entering into a Civil Union - August 21, 2023
Types of Civil Union Laws and How They Differ from Traditional Marriage - August 28, 2023