Civil union
Civil Union
A Civil Union (pronunciation: /ˈsɪv.əl ˈjuː.ni.ən/) is a legally recognized arrangement similar to marriage, established by law in some jurisdictions. It is a form of Legal partnership that provides legal protections to couples at the state level.
Etymology
The term "Civil Union" originates from the late 20th century, coined to denote a legal partnership between two individuals, typically of the same sex, that is recognized by a civil authority. The term "union" is derived from the Latin "unio", meaning "oneness" or "unity", while "civil" is derived from the Latin "civilis", meaning "relating to citizens".
Related Terms
- Marriage: A legally or formally recognized union of two people as partners in a personal relationship.
- Domestic partnership: A legal or personal relationship between two individuals who live together and share a domestic life but are not married.
- Common-law marriage: A marriage that takes legal effect, without license or ceremony, when two people live together and hold themselves out as a married couple.
- Same-sex marriage: The marriage of two people of the same sex or gender, entered into in a civil or religious ceremony.
Legal Aspects
Civil unions offer some of the same protections and responsibilities as marriage, but only at the state level. This includes rights such as hospital visitation, health care decision-making, and property rights. However, civil unions do not provide federal protections, benefits, or responsibilities to couples, unlike marriages.
Social Aspects
Civil unions are often seen as a compromise between the institution of marriage and the desire for legal recognition of relationships other than traditional heterosexual marriages. They have been used as a step towards legalizing Same-sex marriage in many jurisdictions.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Civil union
- Wikipedia's article - Civil union
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