Understanding Civil Unions in Illinois

 Posted on October 19, 2023 in Family Law Blog

Civil unions in Illinois provide legal recognition and protection for same-sex couples, affording them many of the same rights and benefits of married couples. If you are interested in entering a civil union in Illinois, you are best off contacting an Illinois family lawyer. Your lawyer will ensure you know everything you need to before pursuing a civil union. They will also make certain you understand your rights as you begin this new and exciting era in your life. 

Legal Recognition

Civil unions in Illinois are legally recognized relationships that provide same-sex couples with many of the same rights and responsibilities as marriage. This recognition extends to various aspects of life, including healthcare, inheritance, property, and parenting.

Healthcare Decision-Making

One of the significant benefits of civil unions in Illinois is the ability for partners to make healthcare decisions for each other. This includes the right to visit a partner in the hospital, provide consent for medical procedures, and access to medical information. Civil unions ensure that couples have the same rights as married couples when it comes to healthcare decision-making.

Inheritance and Property Rights

Civil unions grant partners the right to inherit each other’s property, just as in a traditional marriage. In the event of one partner’s death, the surviving partner is entitled to inherit without the need for a will. Civil unions also provide protection against creditors, ensuring that partners can maintain ownership of jointly acquired property and assets. 

Parental Rights

Civil unions in Illinois afford same-sex couples the same parental rights and responsibilities as married couples. Partners in a civil union have the legal right to adopt children and establish legal parentage jointly. This includes the ability to make decisions about the child’s upbringing, education, and healthcare. 

Dissolution of a Civil Union

In the unfortunate event that a civil union ends, Illinois provides a legal process for the union’s dissolution. This allows couples to navigate the termination of their relationship while ensuring fair distribution of property and assets and establishing child custody and support arrangements. 

Contact a Lombard, IL Civil Union Attorney

Civil unions in Illinois offer same-sex couples the legal recognition and protection they deserve. By granting the rights and responsibilities comparable to those of married couples, civil unions ensure that same-sex partners can enjoy the same benefits and security in their relationship. If you want to pursue a civil union, contact the experienced DuPage County, IL civil union lawyers with A. Traub & Associates. Call 630-426-0196 for a private consultation.