Denton Divorce Lawyer

Domestic Partnership

Although Texas does not recognize marriages for same-sex couples, there is a way to document same-sex relationships which gives similar protection under the law that heterosexual couples get through a marriage license. The way to apply for these rights is to apply for domestic partnership.

Domestic partners are for unmarried couples, whether the same sex or the opposite sex, who live together and wish to have the economic and legal benefits that are given to married couples. To find out more about domestic partnerships, contact Denton family law attorneys of Alexander & Associates at 972-420-6560.

Benefits of Domestic Partnership

The benefits of a domestic partnership vary greatly from state to state. In some states, such as Oregon, Washington, Nevada and California, a domestic partnership is close to the equivalent of a marriage. In Texas, the rights of domestic partners are very limited due to the passing of the 2005 Texas Marriage Amendment which prohibits any branch of the government from offering benefits to partners of same sex couples.

But, even in Texas, filing for domestic partnership can be beneficial especially in the areas of:

• Property (Domestic partnerships recognize the contribution of one partner to the property of the other.)
• Support obligations

Despite the fact that Texas does not recognize same sex unions, filing for domestic partnership can help offer a degree of security for same sex couple and opposite sex couples who are not married.

Contact Us

To find out more about domestic partnerships, contact Denton family lawyers of Alexander & Associates at 972-420-6560.