Domestic Partnership v Marriage in California: What's the Difference? from JOS Family Law's blog

A domestic partnership is a romantic relationship involving two people who reside together but aren't married. While domestic partnerships confer similar rights to marriage, they have a few differences.

That said, there are also several benefits of domestic partnerships, such as the right to jail and hospital visitations, access to insurance plans, and more. However, the major differences between them arise at the federal level, as domestic partnership isn't recognized by the federal government. 

So let's take a look at Domestic Partnership v Marriage in California: What's the Difference?

Difference Between Domestic Partnership & Marriage

As domestic partnerships aren't recognized at the federal level, the benefits accorded under the federal government like tax and immigration aren't available to domestic partners. 

Thus, domestic partners don't enjoy all the rights that married couples do. The key differences include:

·        Domestic partners cannot receive the social security benefits of their deceased partner

·        Domestic partners cannot file taxes jointly

·        A domestic partner cannot petition their non-citizen partner for immigration

·        Domestic partners cannot transfer unlimited assets between themselves tax-free

·        Complications may arise with domestic partners for the division of assets. 

Whether a domestic partnership is right for you or not depends on the factors mentioned above. 

If you need help in determining the best course for a legal union, get in touch with the law office of Jos Family Law. We help individuals and families in California by protecting their rights and interests in family law cases. 

Call 714-733-7066 or send an email to [email protected] to schedule a free consultation to discuss your concerns and goals.

Company Name:- JOS Family Law

Address:- 1918 W Chapman Ave Suite 200, Orange, CA 92868

Phone:- (714) 733-7066