What Legal Services Do We Offer for Same-Sex and LGBTQ+ Couples?

We cover the full spectrum of family law services tailored to LGBTQ+ individuals and couples under UK law, including:

• Marriage & Civil Partnership Advice -Guidance around entering into, dissolving, or transitioning between civil partnerships and marriages.  
• Prenuptial & Cohabitation Agreements - Drafting agreements that set out how finances, property, and liabilities will be handled while you’re together and in case things change.  
• Surrogacy & Adoption - Helping you navigate legal parenthood, surrogacy agreements, and adoption processes so your family is protected.  
• Parental Responsibility - Clarifying who has legal rights and responsibilities for a child in diverse family situations.  

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Why These Legal Foundations Matter

Even when things are loving and stable, the law doesn’t always automatically recognise what many couples assume. Without legal documents, several important rights can be uncertain or one partner might be disadvantaged in unexpected situations. Some key benefits of proactively arranging legal protections are:

• Clarity and peace of mind over finances, property, and responsibilities
• Protection for children, whether biological, adopted, or born via surrogacy
• Fairness and transparency in the event of separation or legal challenges
• Avoiding disputes and delays by having clear documents in place

What Makes Lyons Bowe Different

We understand how sensitive family matters can be for LGBTQ+ clients. Our approach combines legal expertise with empathy and respect. Here’s what clients can expect:

• Personal-First Advice - We listen, explain clearly, and help you understand options in everyday language.  
• Legal Certainty -Drafting agreements and documents properly, ensuring they’re valid, fair, and enforceable.
• Support Through Complexity -Whether it’s navigating surrogacy agreements, co-parenting, or dissolving a civil partnership, you’re not alone.
• Remote & Local Service - Whether you visit one of our offices or work with us remotely, you receive the same high standard of care.  

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Common Questions We See

Do same-sex couples have different rights than opposite-sex couples?

Legal rights are equal under UK law, but family structure (such as who the biological parent is, surrogacy, or whether there’s a civil partnership or marriage) can create different legal steps. That’s where precise legal advice makes a difference. 

Do I need a prenuptial or cohabitation agreement?

If you want protection over assets, clarity in finances, or arrangements for children, yes, these agreements provide legal certainty. Lyons Bowe helps you draft them so expectations are clear. 

How does surrogacy/adoption work for LGBTQ+ parents?

It depends on whether you’re using a surrogate or adopting, and whether there’s a biological link. We help you through all the legal steps, parental responsibility, legal contracts, and birth registrations. 

Moving Forward with Confidence

If you identify as LGBTQ+ and are considering:

• Starting your family (via adoption or surrogacy)
• Entering into marriage or a civil partnership
• Protecting your relationship legally (cohabitation or prenuptial)
• Ensuring your parental rights are secure

 The Lyons Bowe Family Law Team

We offer a free, no-obligation first consultation so you can ask questions and understand your options. Call your local office or reach us remotely. Email us at info@lyonsbowe.co.uk.

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