An annulment is an action of an authority to make something null. For example, a civil court may declare a marriage null through a divorce. A Church tribunal does not end a marriage, but may declare that a marriage was null from the beginning due to a fundamental flaw, based on facts known after proper investigation.

No. The tribunal may judge marriages of non-Catholics because marriage is a natural institution. However, it only does so when there are effects within the Church—such as a Catholic seeking to marry someone previously married, or a divorced and remarried person wishing to become Catholic.

Yes. The tribunal requires that a civil divorce be final before beginning a case to avoid any conflict between civil and canon law.

Generally, the sooner the better. It is easier to gather accurate testimony from the parties and witnesses soon after a marriage breakdown. Older cases can be more difficult if witnesses are unreachable or memories have faded.

Yes. The Respondent has a right to participate and share their perspective. The Petitioner must provide a current address. If the Respondent cannot be contacted or does not engage, the case may still proceed after a diligent effort to reach them.

Judges make their decision based on evidence. If the Respondent believes the marriage was valid, they may present testimony. If they appear only to obstruct the process, the Tribunal will still issue a decision based on the facts.

Yes. Both parties have a right to see and respond to all evidence, unless there are grave circumstances that justify withholding part of the testimony—such as documented violence.

It is the Petitioner’s responsibility to find and present witnesses. These individuals should be able to speak knowledgeably about the relationship. The Respondent may also submit witnesses.

Close family or friends who knew the couple around the time of the wedding are most helpful. Witnesses who were not close, or who repeatedly answer 'I don’t know,' contribute very little to the case.

This is not a problem. Tribunals often collaborate across dioceses. The Lancaster Tribunal can request another tribunal—even abroad—to interview a witness and forward the transcript.

They assess whether the marriage was fundamentally flawed from the beginning. Their judgment answers the question: was this marriage null on specific canonical grounds?

Grounds for nullity fall into three main categories: (1) defect of canonical form (for Catholics), (2) impediments, and (3) defect of consent.

Impediment or defect of form cases can be resolved quickly—usually within two months. Formal cases based on defect of consent may take a year or more, depending on complexity and availability of evidence and personnel.

Please contact the Tribunal Office for up-to-date information. Financial contributions are welcomed, but cases are not refused based on inability to pay. The Tribunal relies on professional staff and volunteer auditors.

After submitting the application and petition, the Judicial Vicar reviews it. If accepted, a tribunal court is formed. Testimonies are gathered from both parties and witnesses. After the Defender of the Bond offers their review, the judges meet to decide. If there are no appeals, a decree is issued. If the marriage is declared null, the parties are free to remarry unless other impediments exist.