Dissolution of Domestic Partnerships
Domestic partnerships create real legal rights and responsibilities—much like marriage.
When a partnership ends, those rights must be legally dissolved to protect both partners and bring clarity and closure.
At The Cooley Law Firm, we guide clients through both Nevada’s simplified termination process and full court-based dissolution.
Whether your separation is amicable or complex, we help you move forward with dignity and peace of mind.
Understanding Domestic Partnership Dissolution
Nevada allows couples to register as domestic partners under NRS Chapter 122A. Registered domestic partners have nearly all the same legal rights as married couples, including:
Community property rights
Inheritance rights
Parental rights and responsibilities
When a domestic partnership ends, partners must choose one of two legal paths:
Simplified Termination (administrative process), or
Full Dissolution through Family Court
Choosing the correct process is critical to ensure the partnership is fully and permanently ended.
Simplified Termination of Domestic Partnership NRS 122A.300
Nevada offers a streamlined, non-court option for ending certain domestic partnerships.
This process is available only when both partners agree and all eligibility requirements are met.
Eligibility Requirements
You may qualify if all of the following are true:
The partnership has been registered five years or less
There are no minor children born or adopted during the partnership
(or there is already a written custody and support agreement)No partner is currently pregnant
There is no community property or shared debt, or there is a written agreement dividing all property and debts
Both partners waive any claim to partner support
(unless a written agreement provides otherwise)Both partners agree to waive the right to a court dissolution under NRS Chapter 125
How the Simplified Process Works
When eligible, partners:
Complete and sign the Termination of Domestic Partnership form
Have the form notarized
File it with the Nevada Secretary of State, along with the required fee
Once accepted, the partnership is legally terminated—with no court hearing and no judge.
This option is private, efficient, and cost-effective.
Full Dissolution of Domestic Partnership Family Court Process
If the simplified process is not available—or if there are disputes—the partnership must be dissolved through Family Court under NRS Chapter 125.
This process closely mirrors divorce and may involve:
Division of community property and debts
Partner (spousal) support
Child custody, visitation, and child support
Health insurance and retirement accounts
Name restoration
Cases may proceed as:
Uncontested (joint petition, full agreement), or
Contested (court intervention required)
Why Formal Dissolution Matters
Even if partners have separated informally, legal dissolution is essential.
Without it:
Financial obligations may continue
Property and debt may remain jointly owned
Custody and support arrangements may not be enforceable
Either partner may be unable to marry or register a new partnership
Formal termination provides finality, clarity, and legal protection.
The Cooley Law Firm Approach
Ending a domestic partnership is both a legal and personal transition.
Our approach emphasizes:
Respectful representation to minimize conflict
Clear guidance on which process applies to your situation
Efficient resolution to reduce stress and cost
Confidentiality and care at every stage
We handle the process so you can focus on moving forward.
Ready to Begin?
If you are ready to formally end a domestic partnership, we can help you determine the simplest and most secure legal path.
Contact The Cooley Law Firm to schedule a consultation with Shelly Booth Cooley, a Las Vegas family law attorney, Certified Family Law Specialist, and Fellow of the American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers and the International Academy of Family Lawyers.
We are here to help you move forward with clarity and confidence.
