Can a civil union be converted into a domestic partnership?
Yes, a civil union can be converted into a domestic partnership in the state of Washington. According to the Revised Code of Washington (RCW) 26.60.100, couples who are in a civil union can choose to convert their civil union into a domestic partnership. This conversion is voluntary and couples must affirm their relationship meets the requirements of a domestic partnership. This includes that both parties are at least eighteen (18) years old, not related by blood in a way that would prevent them from marrying, and are living together or plan to live together in a relationship of mutual support, affection, and commitment. To convert a civil union to a domestic partnership, both parties must complete a Declaration of Domestic Partnership (available through the Washington Secretary of State) and submit the form with a copy of both parties identification. Upon submission, the Secretary of State will issue a Certification of Domestic Partnership verifying the relationship and the domestic partnership will be effective for as long as both parties are in agreement. Note that the process for converting a civil union to a domestic partnership in Washington is the same as entering into an original domestic partnership. Thus, couples who choose to convert their civil union can access many of the rights and benefits associated with domestic partnerships, including the right to inherit property, access medical care and emergency services, and the right to make medical decisions for their partner.
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