How to Get an Annulment in Pennsylvania
If your marriage started under fraudulent or illegal circumstances, many states have the option of “annulment,” which means you were never legally married. This is different from divorce, which legally ends the marriage. In Pennsylvania, to qualify for annulment, your marriage must be either void or voidable. Learning about Pennsylvania annulment rules may assist you in your case.
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Instructions
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Determine your reason for annulment. In Pennsylvania, there are “void” marriages (never valid) and “voidable” marriages (may later be invalidated). Void marriages include those wherein one of the parties was already married, the parties are too closely related, there is evidence of insanity or mental disorder, or one of the parties was under 18 years old at the time of the marriage. A voidable marriage is one in which one spouse is under 16 years old; is 16 or 17 years old and lacks the consent of a parent; is under the influence of drugs or alcohol; is incurably impotent; or the marriage is the result of one spouse’s fraud, duress, coercion or force.
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Gather proof of the reason for annulment. Include copies of documents, emails, phone records and any other supporting proof.
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Choose an attorney in your area who specializes in annulments (see Resources).
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Schedule a consultation with your chosen attorney. Explain the details of your case and ask about fees and charges.
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Pay the attorney a “retainer fee” (money to start your case). Most attorneys require a fee before they will start working on your case, which they can use to pay for filing fees, hourly fees and other charges such as copying.
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Sign the attorney’s contract. Keep a copy for your records.
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Provide your attorney with any requested information to help him complete your case. This will include all of the proof you gathered, along with any additional information your attorney will need to finish your case.
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Attend the annulment hearing. After your attorney submits your Petition for Annulment, the court will review it and set a hearing. If the court asks you questions, be truthful and speak clearly.
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Tips & Warnings
Call several attorneys in your area before choosing one. Attorneys may have more or less experience and differing fees.
Do not falsify any information regarding your annulment. Submitting fraudulent information to the court can result in fines, criminal charges or imprisonment.
If you attempt to file your own annulment in Pennsylvania, contact your local court clerk to ensure you have the most current information. Forms, rules laws and fees change frequently.
References
Resources
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