Though people are mistaken in using marriage and annulment interchangeably, these are two very distinct ways of ending a marriage. Divorce is the accessible and natural option for most, yet annulment exists for those whose marriage is outside the realm of traditional. Divorce acknowledges a marriage was once valid and eventually came to a legal end. Annulment completely erases the marriage from existence because it was never lawful or legitimate in the first place.
An annulment can only be obtained under the following strict circumstances, including:
- The spouses are related by blood
- Either spouse is married to another person
- Either spouse was underage at the time of marriage
- Either spouse was forced, coerced, or tricked into the marriage
- Either spouse was not of sound mind
- Either spouse frauded the marriage, such as by marrying for a green card
- Either spouse has a physical incapacity such as impotence
Despite perhaps wanting to cleanse your past of a relationship you no longer want, traditional reasons for divorce will not qualify you for an annulment. Proving any of the above can be a lengthy and convoluted process, but an annulment will prevent you from any binding ties to your ex, financial or otherwise.
Trusted Divorce Attorneys Serving Fairfax
Malinowski Hubbard, PLLC is led by family lawyers who are compassionate and reliable in delivering you the most beneficial results possible. We strive to help you put your life back together, maximizing your chances of fair compensation. Our devoted legal team is dedicated to helping the people of Fairfax resolve their family matter needs with ease. We are endlessly steadfast in our pursuit of a resolution on your behalf.
If you are interested in speaking to a member of our firm, please don’t hesitate to contact us by calling (703) 935-4222.