Civil Partnership Registration

With effect from 5 December 2005 same sex couples have been able to lodge notice of their intention to have their existing partnership registered.  By having their partnership legally registered couples will acquire rights and responsibilities that will reflect the commitment they make to each other and help them organise their lives together.

Registering your intention to enter a civil partnership registration

15 clear days after the notice has been lodged the couple have to attend the Registrars Office or an approved venue to register their partnership.  It is recommended that couples give four to six weeks notice of their intention.  You can collect the necessary notice forms from any registrars office or you can download them from Registrar General for Scotland.

Civil partnership registrations can only be conducted by a Registrar or Assistant Registrar who has been authorised by the Registrar General for Scotland.

In East Lothian couples also have the option of requesting a non statutory partnership ceremony which will enhance the registration process.  There will be a small additional charge for this service.

Where can the registration take place

There is no residential qualification so couples can have the registration at whichever Registrars office they choose providing that the Registrar has been authorise to carry out civil partnership registrations. You may book a civil partnership registration or civil partnership registration with a ceremony at any Registration office in East Lothian (Please select your local office on the right).