If you have entered into a Civil Partnership this means that on the death of your partner, the surviving spouse will inherit in the same was as in the case of married couples.
As a result of this, if you have entered into a legally binding Civil Partnership, you will be able to reply upon the relevant provisions in regard to the exemption of Inheritance Tax.
If you have not entered into a Civil Partnership, then the surviving spouse will not inherit , and as such the Deceased persons estate will be subject to the Intestacy Rules. In light of this it is therefore really important that lesbian or gay couples make wills. If your partner has died with no will and you have been `financially maintained ` then in certain circumstances you might well be able to claim under the Inheritance (Provision for Family and Dependants) Act 1975. We have a specialist team handling claims in this area, and can be contacted by calling 01482 638 564.