What is an annulment?

An annulment is a legal process that allows for the dissolution of a marriage. In the state of California, an annulment is an effective way for a couple to undo their marriage legally, as if it never existed in the first place. It is usually available only in very limited circumstances, such as when a marriage is found to be invalid. When a couple files for an annulment, they are not just ending the marriage; they are asking the court to declare that it never existed in the first place. An annulment can be granted when a marriage is found to be void, meaning it was never legally valid in the first place. This may occur when a marriage is contracted by force, when either spouse was under the age of 18, or when the marriage is based on fraud or misrepresentation. If the court grants an annulment, then it is as though the marriage never existed and the parties are treated as if they had never married. An annulment does not necessarily have the same consequences as a divorce. In addition, an annulment may have implications for any children or assets that were acquired during the marriage. Therefore, it is important to seek the advice of a family law attorney if you are considering an annulment.

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