What are the differences between a same-sex marriage, civil union, and a domestic partnership?
Same-sex marriage is a marriage contract between two people of the same legal sex. The definition of civil unions and the benefits granted under the provision vary in each state. Generally, a civil union bestows the same benefits, protections, and responsibilities under law granted to married couples. Federal law does not recognize civil unions, and the benefits and rights in civil unions are not transferable to most other states. Domestic-partnership registries, which are more commonly found in municipalities than states, permit a couple who live together in a committed relationship and who meet various qualifications to publicly register their status as “domestic partners.” The registries permit partners to have a symbolic recognition of their union, and some registries confer certain benefits, usually workplace and health benefits reserved for spouses, to the registered partner.
