Does a civil union provide any protections against discrimination?
In South Carolina, civil unions do not provide any explicit protection against discrimination. This is because South Carolina does not recognize civil unions or any similar legal structure as a form of marriage. Therefore, individuals in a civil union lack the rights and benefits that are afforded to married couples. Furthermore, civil unions are not recognized by the state, which means that couples in a civil union may be discriminated against with impunity, as there are no legal protections in place for couples in a civil union. In South Carolina, discrimination based on marital status is illegal. However, this protection does not extend to civil unions or any other form of same-sex union. In other words, those in a civil union can still be discriminated against due to their relationship status. For example, employers may be able to deny benefits to partners in a civil union, or couples may be denied access to certain services, such as health insurance. While civil unions do not provide any protection against discrimination in South Carolina, there are some organizations that are calling for the state to recognize civil unions as an equal form of marriage. If South Carolina were to recognize civil unions, this could provide protection for couples in a civil union against discrimination. Until then, however, those in a civil union lack legal protection in South Carolina against discrimination due to their relationship status.
Related FAQs
Do I need to obtain a legal document to enter into a civil union?Does a civil union need to be registered with a government agency?
How do I register for a civil union?
Are there any restrictions on the types of civil unions allowed?
Are civil unions considered marriages under the law?
Is a civil union recognized for adoption purposes?
Are there any laws governing the dissolution of a civil union?
Is a civil union recognized in public housing benefits?
Are civil unions available for same-sex couples?
Is a civil union recognized in bankruptcy court?
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