District of Columbia Law The District of Columbia recognizes same-sex relationships as follows: Same-Sex Marriage Same-sex marriage is legal in the District of Columbia. A marriage legally entered into in another jurisdiction between two persons of the same sex that is recognized as valid in that jurisdiction will be recognized as a marriage in the District of Columbia, provided that the marriage is not otherwise prohibited by law.  Click here for more information. Domestic Partnerships Unmarried persons of the same sex may register as domestic partners in the District of Columbia. Domestic partnerships or similar legally recognized relationships (other than marriages) established in accordance with the laws of other jurisdictions, and that are certified as substantially similar to domestic partnerships under D.C. law, will be recognized as domestic partnerships in the District of Columbia. Click here for more information.