Figures released show over 1400 same sex marriages in England and Wales since March 2014

Figures released show that approximately slightly over 1,400 same-sex marriages have taken place in England and Wales since The Marriage (Same Sex Couples) Act 2013 came into force on 29th March 2014. From 10th December 2014 it will be possible for the 120,000 or so people in civil partnerships to convert their partnership to a marriage. In religious, social and psychological contexts the change in the law in the spring was momentous.

In the context of relationship breakdown the changes have been less marked. The process of dissolving civil partnerships is mirrored by the divorce process for both heterosexual and same sex couples. The only exception being that same sex couples will not be able to divorce on the basis of adultery or seek an annulment on the grounds of non-consummation. This relates specifically to the definition of adultery, which is quite specific about the involvement of a man and woman.

Nicola Furmston is a solicitor specialising in the family field at Barker Gotelee, Solicitors in Ipswich.