Oregon Does Not Recognize Nevada Registered Domestic Partnerships

Oregon does not recognize domestic partnerships registered in Nevada.

Legal Basis

• Oregon Family Fairness Act (2008): Created Oregon Registered Domestic Partnerships (for same-sex couples; now also opposite-sex).
• ORS 106.300–106.340: Only recognizes domestic partnerships established under Oregon law or from a "substantially equivalent" jurisdiction.
• Nevada's Domestic Partnership Law (2009): Grants most state-level rights of marriage but is not considered substantially equivalent by Oregon (different eligibility, termination, federal treatment).

Practical Consequences

• Nevada RDP partners cannot access Oregon spousal rights: inheritance, medical decisions, state tax filing, property presumptions, wrongful death claims.
• If you move to Oregon, you must register an Oregon RDP (or marry) to gain protections.
• Marriage (same-sex or opposite-sex) is recognized nationwide per Obergefell v. Hodges (2015).

What to Do

1. If relocating to Oregon: Register as Oregon domestic partners (county clerk, $60, notarized).
2. Or marry (any state, recognized everywhere).
3. Execute advance directives, powers of attorney, wills regardless.

Check Current Law

Oregon Legislative Counsel: ORS Chapter 106. Consult an Oregon family law attorney.