Domestic Partnership

1-877-cmsynergy/1-877-267-9637
Hyde Mulvihill APC Lawyers
216 W. Foothill Blvd (91016) PO Box 1007
Monrovia CA 91017
(626) 358-7471 Fax: (626) 358-2894

One of the most frequent questions that we get on this issue is by straight people, hoping to get some of the benefits domestic partners have, without marriage. The question is whether or not you need to be gay or a lesbian and in a committed relationship to become domestic partners. The answer to that is "no".

You can be domestic partners with an opposite sex partner, if at least one of the partners is over 62. The reason for the over 62 exception is Social Security Benefits, which can be adversely affected by marriage. (Unfortunately, that isn't unusual. We are currently representing a younger married couple who will have to divorce because the child of one of the spouses is disabled and needs Social Security benefits.)

Domestic partnership registration can protect your rights in times of family crisis, protect your children, and give you access to family benefits at work. Because the rights are very limited, you will need estate planning (a will or a trust) if you want to leave your partner anything.

Hyde Mulvihill can help you with your domestic partnership registration.

If you are a California resident and need a domestic partnership registration, please e-mail SHyde@cmsynergy.com. The initial consultation is free.