Civil partnerships
Civil partnerships allow same sex couples to obtain legal
recognition of their relationship and celebrate their commitment to
one another.
All civil partnerships must be registered. Couples
intending to form a civil partnership are required to give notice of their intention to form a
partnership at their local register office before making
any other arrangements.
Where can I form a civil partnership?
As with civil marriages, you can register a
civil partnership at any register office or approved venue in England
or Wales.
Couples may opt for a ceremony with their
registration. However, although local authorities are
required to provide a facility for the registration of civil
partnerships, not all will offer ceremonies.
Who can form a civil partnership?
Same sex adult couples who are not in an
existing registered partnership, not married and not closely
related, can form a civil partnership.
Gay and lesbian couples will sign an official
document in front of a registrar and two witnesses.
What rights will we have as a registered couple?
Registered couples will have new legal status
as registered civil partners and will be protected by a package of
rights as outlined below:
- Partners will be jointly assessed for income related
benefits.
- Joint state pension benefits including the right to a survivor
pension.
- Process to gain parental responsibility for each other's
children.
- Civil partnership status recognised for immigration
purposes.
- Exempt from testifying against each other in court.
- The right to register partner’s death.
- Eligible for bereavement benefits and compensation for fatal
accidents or criminal injuries.
- Surviving partners recognised under inheritance and intestacy
rules and have tenancy succession rights.
Fees and venues from April 2011 to March 2012
Knowsley Registration Service offer a variety of rooms at the
office to suit all tastes, ranging from a small ceremony room for
couples who wish to have their ceremony in a more personal
environment to the unique garden gazebo.
Priestcote Room
- Monday to Friday £98
- Saturday £130
The Garden Gazebo
- Monday to Friday £147
- Saturday £195
Small Ceremony Room
- Monday to Friday £41
- Saturday £93
When booking a venue you must confirm the premises correct name
for the purpose of giving your notice of marriage or civil
partnership. The above three rooms are known as Priestcote
House.
* During autumn and winter months, the Gazebo is only available
for ceremonies in daylight hours. Indoor venues at the office
(Priestcote Room / Small Ceremony Room) are not affected, however
please note the garden will not be open for photographs.
The Register Office (Statutory Room)
Registrar attendance at approved premises in Knowsley
The following venues in Knowsley have been approved for civil
marriages and civil partnerships;
- Knowsley Hall
-
The Huyton Suite
- The Village Hotel and Leisure Club
- Millbrook Manor
- Suites Hotels Knowsley
Monday to Friday £305
Saturday £368
Sunday £410
Please contact us for further
information. You will also need to contact your chosen venue
to make arrangements for your ceremony.