California definition of domestic partner

Civil UnionsĪ civil union legally recognizes a couple’s relationship without the ties of marriage. However, the federal government does not recognize domestic partnerships, so partners may face issues with federal-level marriage rights. Domestic partners are granted the same state right as married couples in California. The state of California does not offer the option of a civil union to couples and instead offers domestic partnerships. Here’s what to know about civil union vs domestic partnership in California.

For people seeking an alternative to marriage, civil unions and domestic partnerships may be the best options.