Pre-civil Partnership Agreement
What is a Pre-Civil Partnership Agreement?
When entering a civil partnership, you hope it will be a lifelong commitment. However, with many relationships breaking down, it’s wise to plan. If you have property, inherited wealth, a business, or other significant assets, a pre-civil partnership agreement can help protect them if the relationship ends. A pre-civil partnership agreement is a legal document signed by both partners before entering a civil partnership. It outlines how finances, property, and assets will be divided in the event of a relationship breakdown. This provides clarity and protection for both parties, particularly when pre-existing assets or family interests are involved.
What is a Civil Partnership?
A civil partnership is a legally recognised relationship between two people, granting them similar rights and responsibilities to those of marriage. To make it official, the couple must register the civil partnership at a register office or approved venue and attend the registration appointment. Once signed and witnessed, the civil partnership becomes legally binding, granting rights relating to property, pensions, inheritance, and financial support.
Think of a pre-civil partnership agreement like an insurance policy – you hope never to need it, but it provides peace of mind and protects what matters most.
Why Should You Consider a Pre-Civil Partnership Agreement?
A pre-civil partnership agreement is particularly important if one or both partners bring substantial assets into the relationship or if there are business interests, family wealth, or property you wish to safeguard.
For high-net-worth individuals or those involved in family businesses, separation can have far-reaching financial and emotional consequences. Parents often encourage such agreements before gifting assets to ensure they remain within the family.
It can also cover future assets, such as anticipated inheritances or business shares, and help address financial arrangements concerning children from previous relationships. Couples who value privacy may even include confidentiality clauses to protect sensitive information. Although some may view it as unromantic, many couples find that it helps them have open conversations about finances and responsibilities, thereby strengthening their relationship in the process.
When Should You Arrange a Pre-Civil Partnership Agreement?
The best time to discuss a pre-civil partnership agreement is early in your engagement. Starting the process well before your registration date allows both partners time to take independent legal advice and avoids any suggestion of undue pressure.
At Kayson Solicitors, we can guide you through these conversations and ensure your agreement is prepared correctly, giving you confidence in its enforceability.
Are Pre-Civil Partnership Agreements Legally Binding?
A While these agreements aren’t automatically binding under English law, courts are increasingly willing to uphold them if certain safeguards are in place:
- Both parties receive independent legal advice.
- There is full disclosure of assets and liabilities.
- The agreement anticipates possible future changes, such as the birth of children or illness.
- It’s signed voluntarily without pressure.
- Our solicitors ensure your agreement meets these standards, giving it the strongest chance of being upheld.
Should You Get a Pre-Civil Partnership Agreement?
These agreements are highly recommended for couples where there’s a significant financial imbalance, one partner expects to inherit wealth, or where either party is entering a second partnership later in life. They help ensure clarity and prevent disputes by setting expectations from the start.
We generally advise against including provisions for spousal maintenance unless both parties are independently wealthy, as financial needs can be challenging to predict over time.
Though it may feel awkward to raise, a pre-civil partnership agreement can prevent emotional and financial strain if things don’t work out.
How We Can Help
At Kayson Solicitors, we’ll support you at every stage of the process. From understanding your priorities to drafting and negotiating the agreement, we work with care and discretion. Our team regularly advises high-net-worth clients, business owners, and expats, tailoring agreements to suit complex financial situations.
We’ll liaise with your partner’s legal representatives and ensure your agreement is drafted to meet legal requirements and protect your interests.
What to Expect from Our Solicitors
Getting expert advice early is essential. We offer fixed fees for drafting pre-civil partnership agreements, so you can move forward with confidence and avoid unexpected costs.
Our family law specialists handle every case with sensitivity and professionalism, ensuring the process runs smoothly without creating tension between you and your partner. If you’re planning a civil partnership and want to safeguard your future, contact us today to arrange a consultation.
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