Ménage a Trois Civil Union in Brazil Sparks Controversy
At Blacks we like to keep up to date with Family Law developments in other countries. Sometimes this can give an indication as to how the position may develop in our jurisdiction in the future, for example the enhanced rights of cohabitees in Scotland and whether this will finally result in a much needed change in the law here to give greater rights to those living together in long term relationships but who have not tied the knot.
Likewise there is also an ongoing debate within government as to whether or not gay couples should be allowed to marry as opposed to simply enter into a civil partnership. It is fair to say that other the years the concept of what is “a family” in the UK has changed markedly and the law is often left striving to catch up with changing public attitudes and views.
Occasionally however something catches our eye from overseas which seems somewhat more unlikely to happen here in the UK, at least in the foreseeable future. In Sau Paulo, Brazil, a public notary has allowed a civil union between three people, a man and his two female partners.
The notary, Claudio do Nascimento Domingues took the view that there was nothing wrong in Brazilian law in allowing the arrangement and felt that the man and his two female partners should be entitled to their family rights.
The decision to allow the civil union has however not been welcomed by all. Religious groups in particular have been angered by the decision. There are also likely to be challenges to the decision with the Institute of Lawyers saying that the union will not be allowed to remain in place. It is also unclear whether the Courts and insurance companies will accept the decision as this would have wide ranging ramifications.
Partner
Family Law
PLancaster@LawBlacks.com
0113 227 9285
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Paul Lancaster
