Do civil unions provide the same legal rights as marriage?
Yes, civil unions in New Jersey provide the same legal rights as marriage. According to the New Jersey Supreme Court’s 2006 ruling on Lewis v. Harris, civil unions provide the same legal and financial benefits that marriage does in the Garden State. For instance, civil union partners are entitled to the same hospital visitation rights, inheritance rights, and health benefits as married couples. Additionally, civil unions are recognized under state law, so partners who enter into a civil union in New Jersey will be able to access the same protections under state laws that married couples have access to. This includes spousal support, alimony, and changes in tax liability. Although civil unions and marriage offer the same rights in New Jersey, it is important to note that civil unions are not universally recognized outside of the state. Federal laws, such as the Defense of Marriage Act, still deny the rights and privileges that married couples have, including immigration, debt relief, social security, veteran benefits, and federal taxes. Therefore, while civil unions in New Jersey are legally equivalent to marriage in terms of state law, they are not recognized at the federal level and may not receive the same protections across state lines. It is important for those considering a civil union to be aware of the fact that they may not have the same rights as a married couple.
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