The Marriage (Same Sex Couples) Act applies in England and Wales. Separate legislation is being implemented in Scotland, but there are no proposals for equivalent legislation in Northern Ireland.
Most provisions of the Act came into effect on 13 March 2014, but do you know what effect this Act actually has?
The Act provides for references to marriage in existing legislation to be read as including same sex marriage.
Someone who changes their legal gender may do so without ending their existing marriage, where both parties to the marriage consent, something previously which was not possible!
Same sex marriages can take place by civil ceremony, or under religious rites where a religious organisation has opted in to the Act’s provisions.
There is also recognition in England and Wales of same sex marriages entered into under the laws of other countries.
However as of yet, it is not possible for a civil partnership to be converted into a marriage, but this is likely to occur later on in the year. Also their are still provisions which limit the extent of the equivalence of same sex marriage in respect of certain pensions issues, though this is due to be the subject of a government review later this year.
Like all marriages, you should also think with your head not just your heart before entering into one. Prenuptial and postnuptial agreements are not just for the wealthy, they are a sensible way of planning for the future. Get legal advice and know your options before entering into a same sex marriage.