Divorce is a common option for couples in today’s society. When the couple is unable to work through irreconcilable differences, they initiate divorce proceedings and work towards legally dissolving the marriage.

While many people think annulment is just a synonym for divorce, the fact is they are two separate things entirely. While a divorce dissolves a marriage, an annulment declares the marriage invalid and works to restore things as though the marriage never existed in the first place.

Vonnah Bagner of Bagner Law, PC, the East Bay area’s leading Family Law attorney, discusses the differences between an annulment and a divorce, and which might be right for you.

An Overview of a Divorce

As a common practice in terminating a marriage, divorces tend to be more straightforward than annulments. A divorce may be granted on a variety of grounds, with “irreconcilable differences” being a common reason, and proceedings will move forward from there.

Once the divorce has been initiated, matters regarding property division, spousal support, alimony, and, if applicable, child support and custody arrangements.

It’s dismissive and incorrect to say divorces are “easy” or “straightforward,” but they are generally easier to navigate due to how common the practice is in today’s society.

Information Regarding Annulments

An annulment, on the other hand, renders the marriage invalid and makes it so that it never existed in the first place. Whereas divorce may be initiated on various grounds, annulment must be declared based on specific grounds, including fraud, duress, mental incapacity, or non-consummation of the marriage.

Divorces are known to take time, but annulments might take longer if the validity of the marriage is in dispute. Property division and spousal support are more difficult to determine, since the marriage effectively never existed in the first place, and prolong proceedings.

Once finalized, an annulment makes it so that the two involved parties were never legally married, whereas divorced parties are considered to have been previously married, in the legal sense.

How to Initiate a Divorce or Annulment

The best way to begin proceedings, whether you are pursuing a divorce or annulment, is by contacting a qualified Family Law attorney. They will be able to provide information and guidance regarding the process, as well as information whether or not your marriage will qualify for an annulment or not.

Once proceedings begin and papers are served, court hearings will begin, at which point representation will make a world of difference. For the best outcome, it’s recommended to hire an exceptional Family Law lawyer to represent you.

Bagner Law, PC

If you’re in the East Bay Area, Bagner Law, PC is the area’s leading firm when it comes to Family Law matters. Not only will they help you determine if you are eligible for an annulment, but they will make the process as easy as possible and provide excellent representation during all hearings and proceedings.

Secure your best outcome by calling Bagner Law, PC today!