Domestic Partnerships in New York
How Is a Domestic Partnership Defined Under New York Law?
In New York, a domestic partnership is defined as a legal relationship between two people who live with one another and share much of their lives, but are not married or united in a civil union. Under some state laws, including those of California and Nevada, domestic partnerships function in much the same way and legally recognized unions, whereas other states may bestow fewer rights to individuals in domestic partnerships.
How the law views domestic relationships is continually evolving, and depends on the jurisdiction where a couple resides. For example, couples who reside together for a long period of time may be eligible for various legal rights in a domestic partnership, provided it is established in the jurisdiction. Ultimately, registration of a domestic partnership allows for the jurisdiction to formally recognize the relationship.
Protecting Your Rights through a Domestic Partnership
Domestic partners may be entitled to certain rights, including the recognition of contribution one individual makes to the property of the other. Devices like the constructive trust are options which may be used by partners in legal marriages, but may not be available to domestic partners. This has prompted courts to find another way to protect the partner who makes contributions to the other’s property.
Some couples enter into a domestic partnership to agree on issues involving:
- Property ownership
- Support obligations
- Issues common to marriage
Same-Sex Marriage vs. Domestic Partnerships in New York
Although same-sex marriage is now legal in all U.S. states, domestic partnership is still an option. It does, however, come with more limited rights. In New York, lawfully married individuals, including those in same-sex marriages, are entitled to more rights and benefits than those registered as domestic partners. Furthermore, if a couple enters into a same-sex marriage in a state other than New York, they are still entitled to some of the same rights and benefits available to lawfully married couples in the state.
If you have questions about domestic partnerships in New York, please schedule an initial consultation with our divorce attorney, Lois M. Brenner, Esq. Call now: (646) 663-4546.
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Going through with our divorce was very difficult time for me and my ex husband. Finding the right lawyer was very confusing, frustrating and time consuming. I was very lucky to find Lois. She is professional and human at the same time. In a few sessions she answered all of our questions, gave us great advice and filled and filed all paperwork for us. Our divorce was finalized very quickly and thanks to Lois it was very smooth process. If my best friend would need a divorce lawyer I would recommend Lois without any reservations.!!! Christina C.- Christine C.
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Finding my way to Lois was the best thing that could have happened during my very contentious divorce. Lois took on my case with a level of care that has been above and beyond. She has been an incredible advocate for me, both legally, guiding me through this difficult process with knowledge and wisdom, and also personally, helping give me strength and support to stand up to my very aggressive ex husband. Lois is a gift, and I am so grateful to her and for the future she is helping to make possible to myself and for my son.- SC
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Lois Brenner is a remarkable attorney and compassionate advocate for dads. She guided me when I was confused and didn't know what to do to get shared custody of my daughter. She encouraged me to stay strong and to fight, and she negotiated a much better custody arrangement than my previous lawyer. What great attorney. Thank you Ms. Brenner- Christoff
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When I first decided to hire a divorce attorney, I thought a male attorney would be best. Lois Brenner really surprised me. Although she has written a divorce book on women’s rights, she is totally an advocate for men as well. She really understood how much I loved my kids, and listened and understood all the horrible things my wife was doing to destroy their relationship with me. She didn’t miss a beat and really went to bat for me. She reached out to my wife’s attorney every time my wife made any attempt to disrupt my visiting our kids and always demanded the best results. She made herself available, even when she was on vacation! Lois has been there every step of the way in these difficult circumstances. I highly recommend her.- Sam
