The Marriage (Same Sex Couples) Act 2013 received Royal Assent in July 2013 and has been brought forward to come into force on 29 March 2014 leading to the first same-sex marriages.

Under section 9 of the Act, couples wishing to convert their civil partnership into marriage may do so. However, due to delays in implementing this important part of the Act, couples who have previously entered into civil partnerships will be delayed in being able to get married because “new procedures” are required before the conversion can take place. The aim is to do this before the end of 2014. Couples who are not already in a civil partnership, wishing to be among the first to marry, will need to give formal notice of their intention by 13 March 2014.

For further information and advice on this issue, and other family law issues, please contact us for a free initial consultation on 01992 306 616 or 0207 956 2740 or email us.