There has been a multitude of discussions, confusions, and controversies about the concepts of civil unions, domestic partners, common law marriages, and same-sex marriages. While the law distinguishes between the terms, people are still confused with regards to the identification and benefits under each legal entity. Also, the fact that the laws are different in different states as it is with various jurisdictions, adds to the confusion, which ultimately leads to people developing a phobia for their identity, their relationship status, and to declare themselves openly. The domestic partnership vs. civil union article below will outline the difference between these two terms. The laws stated above, as mentioned earlier, are granted different benefits under different states. They do not hold recognition in all states, and even in the ones that do recognize them, murky controversies have been created. Many couples have been known to use these laws to escape the commitment of marriage, avoid paying the federal tax, retain benefits, etc. The fact that they are not valid in certain places makes way for couples to find loopholes, since they face innumerable difficulties. Efforts are being made to establish these laws in all states. After all, if we have to fear and live in the country, how can democracy be justified? That said, there is another point to be taken note of: However you are, it is your life, and your identity is your right. But to disobey the established laws is neither your right, nor is it right.