In Illinois, a domestic partner refers to an individual with whom another person shares an intimate and committed relationship. This relationship does not necessarily involve marriage, but it is recognized by the state for certain legal purposes. Domestic partnerships provide limited legal protections and benefits to unmarried couples who choose to register their partnership. Illinois recognizes two main types of domestic partnerships: the Illinois Civil Union and the Illinois Domestic Partnership. While they have similarities, there are key differences between the two: 1. Illinois Civil Union: A civil union is a legally recognized relationship that offers most of the same legal rights, benefits, and obligations granted to married couples. This includes healthcare decisions, visitation rights in hospitals, inheritance rights, and property rights. Couples in a civil union have essentially the same legal protections as married couples under Illinois law. In order to form a civil union, couples must apply for a license and have it solemnized by a judge, a retired judge, or a religious officiant. 2. Illinois Domestic Partnership: A domestic partnership, on the other hand, offers a lesser degree of legal recognition and protection compared to a civil union. It primarily extends benefits to the partners who work for local government entities or the City of Chicago. These benefits may include health insurance coverage, pension plans, and retirement benefits. Domestic partnerships are typically open to both same-sex and opposite-sex couples. Overall, domestic partnership in Illinois provides unmarried couples with legal rights and benefits that can help protect their relationship and provide some of the same benefits as married couples. However, it is important to note that domestic partnerships do not carry the same legal weight as marriage and may not be recognized in other states. Keywords: Illinois, domestic partner, civil union, domestic partnership, legal protections, benefits, Illinois Civil Union, Illinois Domestic Partnership, legal rights, healthcare decisions, visitation rights, inheritance rights, property rights, marriage alternatives, same-sex couples, opposite-sex couples, legal recognition.