San Diego Domestic Partnerships Attorneys

San Diego County Family Law Attorney – Domestic Partnerships

The Law Offices of Kraffert & Shaffer in San Diego, California, are well-familiar with California domestic partnership law with regard to both domestic partnership formation and domestic partnership termination. We possess a unique sensitivity with regard to difficult issues such as those involving children and domestic partnerships. Our attorneys are at the forefront of domestic partnership law and have helped many couples resolve their partnership legal issues. Contact us today for knowledgeable, understanding legal representation.

A same-sex couple or qualified heterosexual couple is eligible for a "domestic partnership" under California State law. Our firm is experienced in assisting same-sex and other qualified couples in preparing the necessary documents to file for a domestic partnership to secure their rights. Because this is a complex and frequently changing body of law, which can have serious personal and financial implications, we encourage you to seek our advice concerning your rights and responsibilities under this law, and to let us help you take control of how your relationships are structured. Our attorneys are prepared to explain the rights and obligations of couples entering into a domestic partnership or co-habitation agreement. Before entering a domestic partnership arrangement, we will help you explore all of your options and alternatives.

The State of California allows couples to file for domestic partnership registry. To qualify for domestic partnership the couple:

• Must have a common residence
• Cannot be married
• Cannot be in a domestic partnership with someone else
• Cannot be related by blood
• Must be at least 18 years of age
• Must be members of the same sex or one person must be over the age of 62
• Both must be capable of consent

If you qualify and are registered, you have several rights of domestic partners that were formerly reserved for married persons. Some of these expanded rights include:

• The right to use step-parent adoption procedures
• Health care and medical emergency rights
• Protections on the death of a partner
• Employment benefits
• Tax benefits.

A new law that went into effect on January 1, 2005, recognizes community property in domestic partnerships, includes the right to spousal support, and establishes children who were born while the couple was in the domestic partnership as the children of both partners. The Declaration of Domestic Partnership can protect your rights and those of your children in times of family crisis. We are familiar with the differences between California and federal law regarding the rights of unmarried partners. We use our knowledge to advise clients about the choices they face. For more information about registered domestic partnership law, contact a San Diego, California domestic partnership attorney at the Law Offices of Kraffert & Shaffer today.

Kraffert & Shaffer, LLP
San Diego Domestic Partnership Lawyer
1250 Sixth Avenue, Ste. 662
San Diego, CA 92101
Phone: (619) 618-2541
Fax: (619) 230-1036

FREE CONSULTATION!