Are civil unions considered marriages under the law?
No, civil unions are not considered marriages under Oregon state law. Civil unions provide a way for unmarried couples in Oregon to legally recognize their relationship and receive some of the same rights and benefits that married couples receive. Civil unions can only be between two people who are both 18 years or older. It does not matter if the two people are of the same or different sex. Civil unions are legally binding and can only be terminated by a court. Unlike a marriage, which is recognized by the federal government, civil unions are not recognized by the federal government. That means couples in a civil union will not receive the same rights, privileges, and benefits that same-sex and opposite-sex married couples receive at the federal level. Although civil unions are not considered marriages, they do provide some legal protection. This includes rights regarding the division of property when the relationship ends or when one member of the union dies. It also includes the right for a family member in a civil union to receive coverage on employer health insurance, and the right to family medical leave if a partner is ill. Civil unions are an important and practical way for unmarried couples in Oregon to get some of the same rights and benefits that many married couples receive. However, although both parties in a civil union are legally protected, civil unions are not the same as marriage and are not recognized as such by the federal government.
Related FAQs
Can a civil union be revoked?Do I need to obtain a legal document to enter into a civil union?
Is a civil union recognized for disability benefits?
Is a civil union recognized in military benefits?
Are civil unions recognized across state lines?
Do civil unions provide any legal protections against debt?
Does a civil union provide any estate or inheritance rights?
Are civil unions recognized for life insurance benefits?
Is a civil union recognized in bankruptcy court?
What are the legal implications of a civil union?
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