Cut The Legal Red Tape

- Susan Hely

In all the excitement around celebrating a same-sex marriage, probably the last thing on your mind is safeguarding your wealth as a couple. But if you haven’t already discussed finances with your partner, it is always a good idea to clear the air. There are a number of legal documents to draw up that will help protect each person’s assets – and the dependants – in case of any unforeseen events.

Having a marriage certificate makes it easier for same-sex couples to explain their relationship to a super fund, lawyer or doctor. Without a certificate, you can spend more time and often more money providing documentation about the de facto relationship, such as how long it had been going.