Legal Definitions - annulment

An annulment is a legal process that declares a marriage null and void from the beginning. Unlike divorce, an annulment is retroactive, meaning that the marriage was never valid in the first place. It is granted when an impediment to a legal marriage existed at the time of the marriage.

An annulment is only granted if specific grounds are met. These grounds may include:

• Fraud or coercion
• An undisclosed prior marriage
• Incest
• One or both parties were under the legal age to consent at the time of marriage, as defined by state statute
• Temporary insanity which existed at the time of marriage, so that the capacity to marry was not present because the person lacked an understanding of the duties and relationship of marriage

For example, if one party was forced into the marriage through threats or coercion, the marriage may be annulled. Similarly, if one party was already married at the time of the marriage, the marriage may be annulled because it was never valid to begin with.

An annulment is a serious legal process that should be considered carefully. It is important to consult with a lawyer to determine if an annulment is the right choice for your situation.