California Response-Domestic Partnership-Marriage is a legal option available to couples in the state of California. This type of union allows two people to create an intimate relationship while gaining the same rights available to married couples. These rights include, but are not limited to, the right to receive public benefits, the right to make medical decisions on behalf of their partner, and the right to file state taxes jointly. There are two types of California Response-Domestic Partnership-Marriage: Domestic Partnerships and Marriages. Domestic Partnerships are available to same-sex or opposite sex couples who are not married but wish to gain the same rights and benefits as married couples. Marriages are available to both same-sex and opposite sex couples who wish to legally bind themselves together in a lasting union. In California, both Domestic Partnerships and Marriages are recognized and are legally binding. Couples in either type of union must register their partnership with the state and meet certain requirements in order to be considered legally married.