Silicon Valley Annulment Lawyers

Whether your spouse is seeking to annul your marriage or you are considering whether annulment is the right path for you, the process can raise complex and important questions. At Silicon Valley Law Offices, our attorneys guide you through every step of annulment in California. Even when both parties agree, a judge will carefully review and approve or deny the annulment. That is why it is essential to work with our experienced Bay Area annulment lawyers, who can assist you through this sensitive matter with clarity and confidence.

What Is An Annulment And How Does It Differ From Divorce?

Sometimes, you might want to consider an annulment instead of a divorce. An annulment, also known as “nullity of marriage,” means that legally, your marriage never existed. Unlike a divorce, where you have to wait six months after filing, an annulment is effective immediately once granted, making you legally single right away.

Grounds For Annulment In California

To get an annulment, your marriage must meet certain criteria, and you need to prove this to the judge. Here are the grounds for annulment in California:

• Underage marriage: If either you or your spouse was under 18 at the time of marriage, you can file for annulment within four years after turning 18.
• Bigamy: If one spouse was already married to someone else, you can file for annulment anytime, as long as the first spouse is still alive.
• Unsound mind: If one spouse was mentally ill at the time of marriage, you can file as long as both spouses are alive and you can prove the illness.
• Physical incapacity: If one spouse can’t physically consummate the marriage, you can file within four years of the marriage.
• Fraud: If one spouse was deceived, you can file within four years of discovering the fraud.
• Coercion: If one spouse was forced into the marriage, you can file within four years of the marriage.
• Blood relation: If the spouses are closely related by blood, you can file for annulment.

Annulments can be complicated, so it’s a good idea to get legal advice. Our family law attorneys can help you figure out if your marriage qualifies for an annulment and how to prove it to the court.

Is An Annulment Right For You?

Keep in mind that an annulment cancels the marriage completely, which can have serious consequences. For example, community property laws won’t apply, so you and your ex will have to divide your assets on your own.

You will also lose any marital benefits like insurance or spousal support. Because of this, it’s important to have a detailed legal consultation to understand the risks and benefits of an annulment versus other types of dissolution. We can help you decide the course of action best suited to your situation.

Contact Our Team Today For A Consultation On Your Next Steps

When you meet with one of our family law attorneys, we will explain your options and next steps as clearly as possible. Call us at 650-546-7595 or email us today to schedule your consultation. Time is critical in annulment cases; California courts and judges apply strict standards, so let us talk today.