California gives the right to couples to reside together by marriage or by registering a domestic partnership. If they want to end the union, both processes are the same. So are most of the rights, except those governed at the federal level.

So domestic partnership v marriage in California: what's the difference? Let's take a look.

What is a Domestic Partnership?

California law defines domestic partnership as two adults residing together to share one another's lives in an intimate and committed relationship of mutual caring. Domestic partnerships were recognized in California as far back as 1999, but it was only reserved for same-sex couples at the time.

That was until the Supreme Court ruled same-sex marriages legal across the U.S. While many other states chose to discard domestic partnerships, California maintained the different statuses.

In 2019, an amendment allowed all couples to choose between a marriage or a domestic partnership.

Domestic partners enjoy the same rights and responsibilities as with marriage, barring a few. These are:

●    Joint Taxation

Domestic partners cannot file taxes jointly.

●    Social Security Benefits

Domestic partners are not entitled to their partner's social security benefits.

●    Transfer of Assets

Domestic partners cannot transfer unlimited assets without taxation.

●    Asset Ownership

They cannot become beneficiaries to any property automatically of their deceased partner.

●    Asset Division

They don't stand a right for equal property division upon separation.

However, all other benefits and procedures that married couples enjoy are accorded to domestic partners. They can separate or nullify their partnership, just like divorce.

Jos Family Law provides skilled legal counsel and representation to domestic partners, same-sex couples, and married couples.

Call (714) 733-7066 for a free consultation for any family law service that you may need.