Civil partnerships
A civil partnership is a legal relationship entered into by a couple, which when registered provides them with similar legal rights as married couples.
Civil partnerships were introduced in 2005 to legally recognise a same sex union. In Scotland from 30 June 2021 opposite sex couples can also enter into a civil partnership.
The main differences between a marriage and a civil partnership are
- marriage is formed by a ceremony and vows, whereas a civil partnership is formed by signing a civil partnership schedule. Although a ceremony is not required some couples choose to have one
- marriage is ended by divorce, whereas a civil partnership is ended by dissolution
- in some countries Civil Partners do not have the same legal rights as married couples, or civil partnerships are not allowed
You can book a Civil Partnership with us and we will confirm availability. You can choose to have a "signing" only, or you can choose to have a ceremony.
Before the ceremony
You are encouraged to meet with the registrar to discuss your ceremony. You can include:
- music (live or recorded)
- personal vows
- readings
- symbolic gestures such as handfasting or lighting a unity candle
Read more about ways to personalise your ceremony.
Where you can have your ceremony
You can hold your Civil Partnership ceremony anywhere in Highland, including:
- hotels, castles, halls or other venues
- ceremony rooms in our registration offices
When you can have your ceremony
Ceremony times are agreed between you and the registrar. We do not offer ceremonies on 25 or 26 December, or 1 or 2 January.
Costs
The cost will depend on the location, the day and the number of guests attending.