Legal Considerations
A City-initiated domestic partnership registry does not create a “legal status” for partners, as defined by Ohio law, and does not equal or approximate to the creation of a marriage. The registry is not a substitute for marriage and isn’t meant to signal a marriage. It is meant as a tool that domestic partners can utilize to show that they are eligible for domestic partner benefits offered by employers or family discounts provided by businesses and organizations. It is also a symbolic message that Cincinnati is committed to creating and maintaining a welcoming and inclusive community.
The domestic partner registry is available to any two adults who are not married that affirm they have an intimate relationship and share responsibility for each other’s common welfare.