Trans Identity and The Law – Gender Recognition Certificates

Here at Browell’s we understand and recognise that your anatomy does not necessarily determine your gender identity. We respect, appreciate and support gender identity and diversity.

What is a Gender Recognition Certificate?

Under the Gender Recognition Act, it is possible for trans people to affirm their non-natal gender by applying for, and obtaining, a Gender Recognition Certificate.

A Gender Recognition Certificate once obtained allows a person to:-

1. Update their birth or adoption certificate if registered in the UK
2. Get married or form a civil partnership in their affirmed gender
3. Update their marriage or civil partnership certificate if registered in the UK;( if their spouse agrees) and
4. Have their affirmed gender on their Death Certificate when they die.

In order to be eligible to apply for a gender recognition certificate a person must pass certain criteria:-

• They must be 18 or over
• They must have been diagnosed with gender dysphoria in the UK
• They must have been living in their affirmed gender for at least 2 years at the time the application is made and intend to live in their acquired gender for the rest of their life

The Gender Recognition Certificate application process

The application process is dependent upon your individual circumstances and by choosing one of the three available tracks. If an application is made using the incorrect track, then this could prove costly both financially and in terms of delay in the application.

How our Family Law team can help

The Family Team at Browell’s can assist you with the process of obtaining a Gender recognition certificate. Please contact Family Team on 0191 691 3418 or by email at family@browells.co.uk