What qualifies as a domestic partner in Washington State is a significant question for many individuals and couples. In this article, we will explore the criteria that define a domestic partnership in the state and discuss the rights and responsibilities that come with this legal status.
Washington State recognizes domestic partnerships as a legal union between two adults who are not married, not related by blood, and not legally separated. To qualify as a domestic partner in Washington, the following criteria must be met:
1. Age Requirement: Both partners must be at least 18 years of age. If one partner is under 18, the other must be at least 18 and have the consent of their parent or guardian.
2. Residency: The partners must have lived together in a committed relationship for at least 30 days. This requirement is in place to ensure that the partnership is not merely a temporary arrangement.
3. No Marriage or Blood Relationship: The partners must not be currently married to each other, nor can they be related by blood. This includes being related as grandparents, parents, children, aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, or siblings.
4. No Other Domestic Partnerships: Each partner must not be in a domestic partnership with another person. This ensures that the partnership is exclusive.
5. No Legal Separation: The partners must not be legally separated. This means that they are not legally separated under a court order or decree.
Once a domestic partnership is established, the partners are granted many of the same rights and responsibilities as married couples. These include:
– Health Insurance: Partners can be covered under each other’s health insurance plans.
– Employment Benefits: Employers are required to provide the same benefits to domestic partners as they do to married employees.
– Inheritance Rights: Domestic partners have the same inheritance rights as married couples.
– Visitation Rights: Partners have the right to visit their partner in the hospital or other healthcare facilities.
– Domestic Abuse Protections: Domestic partners are protected under the state’s domestic violence laws.
It is important to note that while domestic partnerships offer many legal protections, they do not provide all the rights and benefits of marriage. For example, domestic partners cannot file joint tax returns or adopt children jointly. However, the state of Washington continues to work towards expanding the rights and recognition of domestic partnerships to provide more comprehensive support for all committed couples.
