How is a civil union impacted by a divorce?

A civil union in Arkansas is a legally recognized union between two individuals who both provide consent to legally bind their relationship. The couple must be of the same sex and at least 18 years of age. When a civil union is impacted by a divorce, the same legal dissolution of the marriage applies. Such an event is generally referred to as a “civil union dissolution”. The court must adhere to the same rules and procedures as when two married individuals seek a divorce. This includes matters such as asset and debt division, child custody, and spousal support. The court evaluates the facts and circumstances of the case to determine an equitable and fair outcome. Should the civil union partners have children, the court will also determine the rights and responsibilities of both parties in respect to the children - including visitation rights, child support, and adoption rights. In cases where one or both of the parties is not an Arkansas resident, matters may become more complex and require additional paperwork and court appearances. The court must be satisfied that the procedure used is fair and that the terms of the dissolution are in the best interests of the child or children. During a civil union dissolution, both parties may be represented by their own attorneys to look after their individual interests. This means that the entire process may be quite expensive and may take a long time to be completed.

Related FAQs

Does a civil union provide any insurance benefits?
What is the legal process for dissolving a civil union?
Are there any age requirements for entering into a civil union?
Does a civil union need to be registered with a government agency?
Can a civil union be dissolved without going to court?
How do I dissolve a civil union?
Is a civil union recognized in bankruptcy court?
Is a civil union recognized in public housing benefits?
What are the most common reasons for entering into a civil union?
What is the legal age requirement to enter into a civil union?

Related Blog Posts

Explaining Civil Union Laws: An Overview of How They Work - July 31, 2023
Civil 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