Same-sex marriage in Jersey

Legislative history

The path to legalisation began with civil partnerships in 2012. These offered some rights similar to marriage. A 2014 report recommended full marriage equality. After debate and scrutiny, the States Assembly voted 42-1 in February 2018. The bill received royal assent in May. It came into force on 1 July 2018. A proposed tolerance clause for businesses was rejected.

Civil partnerships

Civil partnerships started in April 2012. They provided legal benefits to same-sex couples. In March 2023, the law expanded to allow opposite-sex couples to enter civil partnerships. Married couples can also convert their status to a civil partnership. This aligns Jersey with changes made in the United Kingdom in 2019.

Religious ceremonies

Several faiths conduct same-sex weddings in Jersey. Quakers supported the practice since 2009. The Methodist Church allowed ministers to officiate from 2021. The Church of England permits clergy blessings following a 2023 vote. Ministers with objections may opt out. The United Reformed Church has performed these marriages since 2016.

Parental rights

In October 2024, new laws granted automatic recognition to same-sex parents. Both parents can be named on birth certificates. This applies to children born via surrogacy as well. The Children and Civil Status Law passed unanimously. It ensures equal parental responsibility and legal standing for all families.

How Same-sex marriage in Jersey is kept

Couples register their intent at the Royal Court. They choose a date after 1 July 2018. They may marry in a civil registry office or through participating religious bodies. Some convert existing civil partnerships directly into marriages. The first ceremony occurred in St Helier in July 2018.

When and where

It is available year-round. The law began on 1 July 2018. Couples must follow statutory registration steps before the ceremony.

It is practiced throughout Jersey. The first wedding took place in St Helier. Religious venues include Quaker meeting houses and Methodist churches.

What Same-sex marriage in Jersey means

The union represents legal equality and social inclusion. It validates relationships previously limited to civil partnerships. Religious participation affirms spiritual acceptance within local congregations.

Who takes part

• The couple: Register their marriage or convert a partnership
• The registrar: Officiate the civil ceremony
• Ministers: Perform religious rites if permitted by their faith

If you are a guest

Guests attend the ceremony at registered venues. They witness the exchange of vows. No specific attire or gifts are mandated by law.

Then and now

The practice is fully legal and established. Parental rights were strengthened in 2024. Civil partnerships now include opposite-sex couples. Religious participation remains optional for clergy.

Questions people ask about Same-sex marriage in Jersey

See also

Good reading and sources

• BBC - JerseyBBC, Article
• Gay marriage proposition lodged by Reform JerseyBBC, Article
• Methodist church to allow same-sex marriage after ‘historic’ voteThe Guardian, Article
• BBC - JerseyBBC, Article
• Gay marriage proposition lodged by Reform JerseyBBC, Article
• Methodist church to allow same-sex marriage after ‘historic’ voteThe Guardian, Article

• Same-sex marriage in Jersey on WikipediaEncyclopedia
• Wikidata recordOpen data

It may contain mistakes. Wedding customs differ from one family, village and community to the next, and the people who keep them know them best. If something is wrong, tell us. Last refreshed 2026-10-06.