Domestic Partnership’s

Protecting Your Rights, Your Future, and the Life You’ve Built Together In California, a domestic partnership is a legally recognized relationship that offers many of the same rights and responsibilities as marriage—including property rights, parental rights, and healthcare decisions. Whether you’re entering into a partnership or dissolving one, the legal implications are significant—and deserve proper guidance.

At Fernandez Family Law, we support individuals and couples across the Central Coast—San Luis Obispo, Santa Maria, Paso Robles, and beyond—who are seeking to legally protect their partnership, clarify their rights, and move forward with peace of mind.

How the Domestic Partnership Process Works

Here’s what the process looks like from start to finish:

✅ Step 1: Partnership Formation

• You and your partner register your domestic partnership with the California Secretary of State.
• We assist with filing, ensure eligibility, and advise on the legal implications of registration.

✅ Step 2: Optional Legal Planning

Many couples choose to establish:

• Cohabitation Agreements
• Property Agreements
• Healthcare Directives and Estate Plans

We help define legal expectations, avoid future disputes, and protect your shared future.

✅ Step 3: Legal Rights and Responsibilities

Registered domestic partners are entitled to:

• Hospital and healthcare decision rights
• Community property protections
• Parental rights and support obligations
• Potential spousal support, if the relationship ends

✅ Step 4: Dissolution (If Needed)

Ending a domestic partnership involves many of the same legal steps as divorce:

• Division of community property
• Spousal support (if appropriate)
• Custody and child support (if children are involved)
• Legal filings through your county’s Superior Court

We help you navigate this with compassion, clarity, and a forward-focused strategy.

What to Expect Emotionally & Legally During a Domestic Partnership Case

Whether you’re entering into a legal partnership or ending one, the process can bring up a mix of emotions: excitement, anxiety, grief, or confusion. That’s normal.

You may be wondering:

• What am I legally entitled to?
• How do we divide property or assets?
• Will I still have a say in medical decisions or custody?
• How can I protect myself without escalating conflict?

We’re here to help you:

• Understand your legal rights and responsibilities
• Prepare for long-term protection or peaceful separation
• Navigate child-related issues if children are involved
• Feel secure and respected throughout the entire process

What Makes Fernandez Family Law Different

Serving families across California’s Central Coast, we offer legal expertise rooted in empathy, strategy, and community care.

Here’s why clients trust us:

• ✅ Local Knowledge: We understand the courts and legal dynamics in San Luis Obispo, Santa Barbara, and surrounding counties.
• ✅ Inclusive Representation: We support all couples—LGBTQ+, blended families, nontraditional partnerships—with dignity and precision.
• ✅ Comprehensive Guidance: From initial planning to dissolution, we walk you through every phase of your legal partnership.
• ✅ Custom Solutions: Your relationship is unique. Your legal plan should be too. We tailor strategies around your life, not legal templates.

Speak to a San Luis Obispo Family Law Attorney Today

Whether you’re establishing a domestic partnership, protecting assets, parenting within a non-marital relationship, or separating respectfully—we’re here to protect what you’ve built and guide what’s next.

At Fernandez Family Law, we offer experienced, compassionate representation for domestic partnership cases across San Luis Obispo, Santa Maria, Paso Robles, and all of California’s Central Coast.

📞 Call today to schedule your confidential consultation.
Because your relationship matters—and so do your rights.