The legal rights of spouses in same-sex relationships have been expanded in several states through domestic partnerships and civil unions. New Jersey is one of the states that permits civil unions. If you’re a New Jersey resident, here are some important things you should know about protecting your relationship from a legal standpoint.
Civil unions and domestic partnerships
New Jersey allows for both domestic partnerships and civil unions, as well as same-sex marriage.
New Jersey legalized same-sex marriage in 2013 after the New Jersey Superior Court ruling in the Garden State Equity v. Dow case. State Statute 37:1-30 was ruled unconstitutional that year. The statute asserted that individuals had to not be a part of another civil union in New Jersey, be of the same gender or be at least 18 years old.
Committed relationships
A significant number of New Jersey residents choose to live in domestic partnerships. This describes two people living together and sharing personal, economic, and emotional ties with one another. A domestic partnership is classified as a familial relationship and can benefit the state by establishing a supportive network to enhance the physical, emotional, and economic health of New Jersey residents.
State laws now indicate that people in domestic partnerships should have the rights and benefits that married couples in the state are able to enjoy. These rights include obtaining housing and employment without discrimination, as well as visitation rights if one partner is hospitalized.
To learn more about the rights and privileges associated with domestic partnerships in New Jersey, speak with an experienced family law attorney.