How Long Does an Annulment Take?
When a couple decides that they want to end their marriage, the first question on their mind is how long does it take to get an annulment? The answer to this question depends on a variety of factors.
In this blog post from our team of Church judges at Catholic Annulment - Another Chance, we will discuss the different reasons why someone might want an annulment and how long the process typically takes. If you are considering getting an annulment for your marriage, it is important to speak with a qualified Catholic annulment lawyer who can help guide you through the process.
Learn more about the annulment process and timeline below and get in touch with our team today to get started.
Learn more about the annulment process and timeline below and get in touch with our team today to get started.
Reasons for an Annulment
If you were married in a Catholic Church and you wish to remarry, you will need to obtain an annulment. There are numerous reasons why someone might want to pursue an annulment.
Some individuals petition for the annulment for peace of conscience. They are civilly divorced with no plans for the future marriage, but do not believe what they experienced in their marriage was what God intended for them. Another reason may be that someone is divorced but hopes to be engaged and married in the Catholic Church. Or, perhaps a person who is divorce is already remarried civilly, but wants to have that marriage blessed in the Catholic Church.
The Catholic Church presumes a couple legally Marriage is in church law when they exchange their vows. There are about 15 legal requirements inherent in the wedding vows. So, there are approximately 15 legal grounds for an annulment. If it can be proven that any one of those 15 requirements was not present on the wedding day, then the marriage is not binding in church law.
Annulment vs. Divorce
It is important to note that an annulment is not the same thing as a divorce. A divorce simply ends the legal contract of marriage. An annulment, however, declares that the wedding was not legally binding. This is why it is important to speak with a qualified Catholic annulment lawyer before making any decisions.
The Annulment Process
The process of getting an annulment can be started by either the ex-spouse. Annulment has no legal impact in church while on the children.
The first step in the Catholic church annulment process is to gather all of the necessary documents such as the marriage certificate, baptismal certificate, divorce decree and any other relevant information.
The next step is to file a petition with your local diocese. Once the petition is filed, the diocese will appoint a judge to hear your case. The marriage tribunal (fancy name for church court) will then gather evidence and testimonies from both parties and witnesses. Then, the tribunal will review the case and make a decision on whether or not to grant the annulment.
Common Annulment Timelines
The length of time it takes to obtain an annulment varies depending on the reasons for the annulment and the country in which you are applying. Church law stipulates that the process should be completed within 12 months – sometimes it is a little shorter and other times a little longer depending on the case.
How to Get a Catholic Annulment
The Catholic Annulment process can be long and complex. If you are considering getting an annulment, it is important to seek out the help of a qualified Catholic annulment lawyer. A lawyer can help you navigate the process and ensure that your rights are protected.
Why Partner With Our Catholic Church Judges for Your Annulment?
The Church provides a process for couples to obtain an annulment, but the process can be confusing and complicated. If you are considering getting an annulment, our team at Catholic Annulment - Another Chance can help. We are a team of experienced Catholic Church judges who can help you through every step of the process. We understand the Church's teachings on marriage and we can help you navigate the annulment process.
Our Pricing For Catholic Annulments
Here at Catholic Annulment - Another Chance, we offer professional annulment consulting fees that are fair, reasonable, and clear from the start. We offer a free 30-minute consultation and our standard hourly rate is $185 . If you register for services an initial two hour retainer is requested. All payments made are secure and private.
Depending on your case, you may be considered for pro bono work or free annulment services from our judges and consultants. Get in touch with us today to see if your annulment case qualifies.
The Catholic annulment process can be long and confusing, but our team at Catholic Annulment - Another Chance can help. We are dedicated to helping couples navigate the annulment process and we will be with you every step of the way. Contact our team today to learn more.
The Catholic annulment process can be long and confusing, but our team at Catholic Annulment - Another Chance can help. We are dedicated to helping couples navigate the annulment process and we will be with you every step of the way. Contact our team today to learn more.