What is a domestic partnership or civil union?

But the definition of a domestic partnership or civil union varies from one city or state to the next. Two people in a committed relationship often want to formalize their bond and gain certain legal rights. One way they can do this is by entering a domestic partnership.

Are domestic partnerships legal?

Domestic partnerships are only recognized in a few states, which require registration of the relationship in order to be afforded those rights. While this type of relationship is most commonly used by same-sex partners, it is available in some states to partners of same or opposite sex who live together, sharing a domestic life.

What is a domestic partnership?

This is an official document that publicly declares their commitment to each other. In some states, like Oregon, Colorado, and Wisconsin, domestic partnerships are registered at the county level. Other states, like New Jersey, Hawaii, and Nevada, have their own specific domestic partnership laws.