Colorado Springs
Domestic Partnership
Lawyer
Domestic Partnership Attorney
Before you enter into a domestic partnership in Colorado, it is imperative that you understand what a domestic partnership is and what it is not. If you and your intended partner are living together and wish to be recognized legally as domestic partners, you will have to go through a registration process to make your domestic partnership official.
In Colorado, domestic partnerships are also called “civil unions” and can take place between two consenting cohabitating partners (regardless of sex or gender). Individuals consenting to a legal domestic partnership are confirming that they are mutually committed to living together within a caring relationship.
Our Lawyers Understand Family Law
The domestic partnership lawyers at Johnson Law Group are dedicated to helping couples in domestic partnerships understand their rights, protect their union, and navigate legal matters. Our lawyers have a thorough understanding of family law and are experienced in advocating for couples in all stages of domestic partnership.
We understand the complexity and nuance of domestic partnerships and how they differ from traditional marriages, and we can provide unique solutions to issues that arise in these partnerships. If you are in a domestic partnership and need legal assistance, we have qualified attorneys here in our Colorado Springs office who can provide sound advice and support on the matter.
Who Qualifies for a Domestic Partnership in Colorado?
To qualify to enter into a domestic partnership in Colorado Springs, CO, both parties in the cohabitating couple must meet certain requirements. Under the law, you (and your intended domestic partner) qualify for a legal partnership only if you both meet the following criteria:
- Are at least 18 years of age at the time of registration
- Are unmarried
- Are competent to consent to the partnership
- Are sharing a common household
- Are not legally partnered with someone else
If you and your partner meet these requirements, you can proceed with registering for legal recognition. A legally recognized domestic partnership provides benefits that are advantageous to couples looking to build a life together.
frequently asked questions domestic partnership
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How Do I Prove a Domestic Partnership in Colorado?The only way to validate a legal domestic partnership in Colorado is to have both parties sign an affidavit swearing that they both consent to the partnership. The affidavit is specifically intended to prove you and your domestic partner intend to remain committed to one another and mutually vow to care for and provide support for one another.
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Does Colorado Recognize Domestic Partnerships?Yes, domestic partnerships are legally recognized in the state of Colorado. Once both parties have gone through the process of officially registering the partnership, they are eligible to take advantage of the benefits of official recognition for applicable insurance and tax purposes. To learn more, please feel free to speak to a domestic partnership attorney from our team about having a free consultation.
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How Is a Domestic Partnership Different From a Marriage?Domestic partnerships and marriages have several major differences. Unlike marriage, domestic partnerships are not recognized in all 50 states. This means that individuals in domestic partnerships may face obstacles that married couples do not once they cross state lines. For example, domestic partners are not guaranteed universal acceptance under their partner’s medical insurance and are not guaranteed automatic inheritance of assets or death benefits if their partner should die.
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Is a Domestic Partner the Same as a Common law Spouse?Colorado is one of 11 states that recognize common law marriages and domestic partnerships. The two terms are often used interchangeably, but they are legally not the same. The process for qualifying for a domestic partnership also differs from qualifying for a common law marriage. Domestic partners need to register to be legally recognized in the state, but common law spouses do not need documentation to be legally recognized. Common law marriages also afford couples more benefits than domestic partnerships, including tax exemptions and social security benefits.
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Are Domestic Partnerships in Colorado Recognized Nationwide?The short answer is, “No.” Domestic partnerships are only recognized in a handful of states, so once a couple in a domestic partnership leaves their state, there are no guarantees that they can share benefits or engage in civil matters the way they are able to do in their respective state of legal recognition.
Our Attorneys Meet Your Legal Team
At Johnson Law Group, our team of skilled and understanding legal professionals proudly provides comprehensive and efficient legal services for all clients.
Termination of a Domestic Partnership
Domestic partnerships must be officially registered in court to be legally recognized. Therefore, domestic partnerships must also be legally terminated. Under most circumstances, the termination of a domestic partnership requires participation from both parties. If both partners wish to end their partnership, they must submit a Notice of Termination to their local city clerk’s office with their signatures and the required $25 termination fee. If one partner wants to end a domestic partnership without the other party, he or she must prove they have made attempts to notify the other partner about the termination but have been unsuccessful in locating the other party.
It is important to note that if one partner dies, the domestic partnership would end, and the surviving partner would be able to move on into another relationship if/when desired. Domestic partnerships can also be terminated when one or both partners are no longer meeting the requirements in the partnership affidavit.
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Individualized AttentionJust as each family is unique, so is each family legal matter. We always take the time to completely understand your situation so that we can tailor our advice and strategy accordingly.
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Highly RecommendedOur clients often take the time to write and thank us, not only for the results we have earned for them but also for the respect we’ve shown them.
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Supportive CounselWe never lose sight of the fact that divorce and other household conflicts can feel overwhelming. Our family lawyers will answer all of your questions to ease your burden in this difficult time.
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From the initial phone call I spoke to Myles Johnson, he gave great direction on how to proceed. Then acquiring the firm as my legal representation I worked with Said and he helped me step by step to get what I was looking for. I have already recommended two different individuals I know to Johnson Law Group and will be using them for all future situations. From the legal team to Cory at the front desk, everyone at the firm is top-notch.- Brady M.
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Andrea Dulton, Is pleasant, professional, extremely knowledgeable. I feel confident that she is going to win our Case. On a personal note, I like her, she makes me comfortable.- Kim E.
Jenny Little is a professional, patient, and knowledgeable individual. Regrettably, I haven’t had the chance to meet Jenny in person. -
I called Johnson Law Group extremely frustrated and stressed with the process of my custody case. From the consultation to every conversation after, Elizabeth went out of her way to make sure that i was comfortable with all the matters and decisions. My goals and the safety of my children were always the priority to the JLG team. I highly recommend Elizabeth and the whole Johnson Law Group team to anyone going through custody matters. Elizabeth, Cassidy, and Paola were amazing. I would happily use them again if needed.- Patricia
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This review nor a amount a amount of characters can express how grateful I am for Johnson law. From the moment I called they gave me a peace of mind that they where going to be able to help me through my child custody situation. I worked with Yasaman and she was super professional and caring. From the moment she started working on my case and laid down the road map to our approach to my case it happened to a tee. She never misled me or over promises anything but over delivered every step of the way! The last 6 months would of been hell if it wasn’t for Johnson Law and Yasaman.- Jaime S.
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I wasn’t familiar with the process of child custody but I must say not only did Myles and his team direct me properly but it was a process that wasn’t money motivated. Very professional group, I was constantly informed of any step or move needed to be made, and they took a very stressful situation and made it a very pleasant storm. Thank you Myles and Johnson group for everything!”- Dwight
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- Aaron
Myles is the best representation for anyone who has to go through an APR case. From day 1 he was very welcoming and attentive to me and what I was going through. I always felt very respected by him and the other members of his firm. Myles always took the time to really investigate any information or things involved with my case. I knew he was truly invested in my best wishes. When there were deadlines that needed to be met, they always were. If I was ever confused about a process, paperwork or court proceedings Myles took the time to explain and make sure I was comfortable and understood what was going on. All the way through Mediation. He was an absolute success and I could not have asked for better representation. I will always recommend Myles to anyone in need an attorney.
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I have a high profile case involving a custody matter, that stretched across multiple States, which included Colorado. At one point I had 4 Law firms attending to the matter in 4 different States, Johnson Law Group stood out as the best Law Firm, exemplifying integrity, fairness and strategies for the case. I highly recommend Johnson Law Group.- Jorel S.
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- Morgan M.
Katie and Daniel were both attentive and able to handle a case of mine in a short period of time. I highly recommend this firm.
Helping Our Clients Settle Domestic Partnership Matters in Colorado
We understand that while some couples don’t wish to be legally married, they do wish to officially recognize their union in other ways and support one another. If you and your partner need help with registering, validating, or terminating your domestic partnership, the attorneys at Johnson Law Group can help. Our team is a stellar group of experienced family law attorneys who have a comprehensive understanding of legal domestic partnerships.
A member of our legal team would be happy to assist you with making an appointment to address your concerns and help you better understand how to navigate your legal domestic partnership.
If you want to know more about the registration process or your rights as an officially recognized domestic partner, please contact our Colorado Springs office to request a consultation today.
