Dissolving a Civil Union in Illinois

Abear Law Offices

A civil union is defined as a legal relationship given to Illinois adult partners who are not married. On January 31, 2011, the Religious Freedom Protection and Civil Union Act was signed to allow both heterosexual and same-sex couples to be in a civil union with the same obligations and rights as married couples. The Civil Union Law became effective June 1, 2011.

Differences Between Civil Unions and Marriages

There are not many legal differences between a marriage and a civil union—civil partners have the same rights as married spouses. However, there are differences with regard to civil union and marriage eligibility:

  • Anyone under the age of 18 cannot enter into a civil union;
  • Any civil union can potentially be converted into a marriage, but not the other way around; and
  • If a civil union has already been granted, and the couple wants to go through marriage, there is no fee for the marriage license.

Since the legalization of marriage within the LGBT community, there has been a huge decrease in civil unions.

What are the Requirements to Dissolve a Civil Union?

Dissolving a civil union is nearly the same as dissolving a marriage. Any couple who wishes to dissolve a civil union will be able to do so in the State of Illinois. To receive a certified copy of a Dissolution of Civil Union records, an interested couple will need to go to the county circuit court clerk where the civil union was granted. The facts of a civil union dissolution can be verified by the Division of Vital Records, which include:

  • Names of both members of the couple;
  • Birth dates of each member;
  • Date of the granted civil union; and
  • City and county of the granted civil union.

To request a verification, one will pay $5 and make the request via mail, fax, or in person. The couple planning to dissolve the civil union must complete an Application for Verification of Dissolution of Civil Union Record Files, as well as submit a valid and unexpired photo ID, such as a driver’s license.

Contact Your Wheaton Civil Union Law Attorney

Going through the dissolution of a civil union can be just as painful as going through a divorce. Ending a relationship with someone you cared for can be an emotional process. At Abear Law Offices, we understand what you are going through and we will look out for your best interests. Speak with a compassionate DuPage County civil union law attorney  today. Call 630-904-3033 to schedule your free initial consultation.

Sources:

https://insurance.illinois.gov/newsrls/2011/05/CivilUnionsFinal05-25-11.pdf

https://www.isba.org/ibj/2011/05/aguidetothenewillinoiscivilunionlaw

http://www.dph.illinois.gov/topics-services/birth-death-other-records/dissolution-civil-union-records