Key Points of Civil Partnership Bill
The key points
In this section
CIVIL PARTNERSHIPS
Same-sex partners can avail of marriage-like benefits in a range of areas such as property, social welfare, succession, maintenance, pensions and tax.
The first formal civil unions next year were carried out in March of this year, 2011.
Prospective partners are required to provide three months' notice of a civil partnership. Ceremonies take place in civil registry offices or other approved settings.
The legislation also provides for recognition of civil partnerships, or their equivalents, from other countries.
COHABITING COUPLES
A redress scheme is available for same sex or opposite sex cohabiting couples who have been living together for five years or more.
It will allows for a "financially dependent" cohabitant to apply to court for redress such as a share in property, a lump sum, periodic payments or a share in the other person's pension.
If the relationship ends through death, the surviving cohabitant can make a claim on the estate.
For those who want to opt out of the redress scheme, couples must register a "cohabitant agreement" which regulates the shared financial affairs of the couples.
increase in Numbers seeking Protection from Domestic Violence
More seek domestic violence services
There has been an "unprecedented demand" for domestic violence services in recent years according to Safe Ireland, a national network of women's refuges and support services.
Legal Aid
Irwin Solicitors are members of the Private Practitioners Scheme.
This allows you representation in the District Court on issues concerning Domestic Violence that is applications for Safety orders and barring Orders.
Contact the Legal aid Board www.legalaidboard.ie for assessment for financial eligibility.
Tel: 066 9471000
Locall 1890 615200
Domestic Violence
DOMESTIC VIOLENCE
We have extensive experience in advising clients as to how to obtain the appropriate help in a situation of domestic violence.You should immediately ensure the safety of yourself and your children if you are a victim of domestic violence.The victim can be male or female and the District Court deals with applications on a speedy basis.You can attend the Court where you will be given an early Hearing date or even an Order there and then.
