A domestic partnership is a legal or socially recognised status for two unrelated adults who have chosen to share one another's lives in a committed relationship of mutual caring, who reside together, and who agree to be jointly responsible for their dependents, basic living expenses, and other common necessities. While offering some of the rights and benefits of marriage, domestic partnerships typically do not grant the full range of legal protections afforded to married couples under federal law. The criteria for establishing a domestic partnership can vary depending on the jurisdiction or organisation, often requiring a formal registration process. Domestic partnerships were initially established to provide recognition and benefits to same-sex couples before the legalisation of same-sex marriage, but they are also available to heterosexual couples who choose not to marry. The specific rights and responsibilities associated with domestic partnership can include healthcare benefits, inheritance rights, and the ability to make medical decisions for a partner. The rise of domestic partnerships reflects changing social norms and a broader recognition of diverse forms of intimate relationships.