What is a civil union partner in NJ?
In New Jersey, a civil union partner refers to an individual who is in a legally recognized civil union with another person. This term became significant following the state’s enactment of the Civil Union Act in 2007, which granted same-sex couples many of the same rights and responsibilities as married couples. Understanding the concept of a civil union partner in New Jersey is crucial for those seeking to enter into this legal arrangement or those affected by it.
Definition and Legal Recognition
A civil union partner in New Jersey is defined as a person who has entered into a civil union with another person, regardless of their gender. The Civil Union Act stipulates that civil unions are to be treated as the legal equivalent of marriage for all purposes under New Jersey law, except for those requiring federal recognition. This means that civil union partners have the same rights and responsibilities as married couples in the state, including inheritance rights, hospital visitation rights, and the ability to make medical decisions for each other.
Entering into a Civil Union
To become a civil union partner in New Jersey, two individuals must meet certain criteria. They must be at least 18 years old, not currently married or in a civil union, and not related by blood to a degree that would prohibit them from being married under New Jersey law. The couple must also complete a civil union application and file it with the county clerk in the county where they intend to enter into the civil union. After the application is approved, the couple must attend a civil union ceremony before a judge, justice of the peace, or other authorized official.
Rights and Responsibilities
Civil union partners in New Jersey enjoy numerous rights and responsibilities, similar to those of married couples. These include:
– Joint ownership of property
– Joint financial responsibilities
– The right to make medical decisions for each other
– The right to inherit each other’s property
– The right to file a wrongful death claim if one partner dies
Termination of a Civil Union
A civil union in New Jersey can be terminated through dissolution, which is similar to a divorce. To dissolve a civil union, the partners must file a complaint with the Superior Court of New Jersey, Family Part. The court will then determine whether the civil union should be dissolved and address issues such as property division, alimony, and child custody.
Conclusion
In New Jersey, a civil union partner is an individual who has entered into a legally recognized civil union with another person. This arrangement grants partners many of the same rights and responsibilities as married couples under state law. Understanding the concept of a civil union partner is essential for those considering entering into this legal arrangement or those affected by it.
