Is a civil union a legal contract?
Yes, a civil union is a legal contract in North Carolina. A civil union is a legally recognized union between two people, who are usually of the same sex. The civil union allows for both people to gain the same legal status as a married couple, meaning they have access to similar rights and benefits. In North Carolina, both parties sign an official contract which recognizes their union. It is important to note that such contracts are different than marriage contracts, as civil unions do not create a marital bond or grant the same legal rights and responsibilities that marriage does. This contract is usually registered with the local county register of deeds. Although civil unions are recognized in North Carolina, they are not recognized by the federal government. This means that parties in a civil union may not be able to access certain federal benefits, such as Social Security or veteran’s benefits. It is important to remember that civil unions are still legally binding contracts in North Carolina. Both parties must abide by the same laws that apply to married couples with respect to things such as child custody, assets, and debt. Failure to abide by the law can result in legal and civil action.
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