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

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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 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.

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.

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

Begin by contacting your local Catholic parish and expressing your interest in learning about the faith. The parish will guide you through the RCIA process, providing information on sessions, schedules, and requirements. Engaging with the parish community and participating in inquiry sessions are the first steps toward your journey into the Catholic Church.

Not necessarily. The Catholic Church recognises baptisms from other Christian denominations if performed with water and the Trinitarian formula ('in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit'). If your baptism meets these criteria, you won't be re-baptised. Instead, you'll make a profession of faith and receive the sacraments of Confirmation and Eucharist.

While not obligatory initially, attending Mass is highly encouraged during the RCIA process. It helps candidates become familiar with the liturgy, experience the community, and deepen their understanding of Catholic worship. As the journey progresses, regular Mass attendance becomes an integral part of spiritual preparation.

The Easter Vigil is the most significant liturgy of the Catholic year, held on Holy Saturday night. During this celebration, catechumens receive the sacraments of initiation: Baptism, Confirmation, and Eucharist. Candidates (already baptized individuals) are received into full communion with the Church through Confirmation and Eucharist.

Yes, children of catechetical age (typically seven and older) who are unbaptised or seeking full communion with the Church participate in a process adapted for their age. This journey involves age-appropriate catechesis and culminates in receiving the sacraments of initiation.

A sponsor serves as a spiritual companion and mentor throughout the RCIA process. They support the candidate through prayer, guidance, and participation in sessions and rites. Sponsors are typically practicing Catholics who can provide insight and encouragement as candidates journey toward full communion with the Church.

The RCIA process comprises four stages: Inquiry (exploring the faith), Catechumenate (deepening understanding), Purification and Enlightenment (spiritual preparation, especially during Lent), and Mystagogy (post-initiation reflection). Each stage includes rites and milestones, guiding individuals toward full communion with the Church.

Yes, being divorced doesn't prevent you from becoming Catholic. However, if you're divorced and remarried without an annulment, or planning to remarry, you'll need to discuss your situation with a priest. The Church may require an annulment process to address the validity of your previous marriage before proceeding.

The duration varies based on individual circumstances. For unbaptised individuals, the RCIA process typically spans about a year, aligning with the liturgical calendar and culminating at Easter. Those already baptized in another Christian tradition may have a shorter preparation period, focusing on understanding Catholic teachings and practices. Ultimately, the timeline depends on one's readiness and the guidance of the local parish.

If you've been baptised but haven't received Confirmation, the RCIA process can help you prepare for this sacrament. Through study and participation in the parish community, you'll deepen your understanding of the faith and readiness to receive Confirmation, completing your initiation into the Catholic Church.

That's perfectly acceptable. The initial stage of RCIA, known as the inquiry phase, is designed for individuals exploring the faith without any commitment. It's an opportunity to ask questions, attend sessions, and discern your path. You're free to take your time and decide when—or if—you're ready to proceed.

The Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults (RCIA), now often referred to as the Order of Christian Initiation of Adults (OCIA), is the process through which adults enter the Catholic Church. It involves several stages: inquiry, catechumenate, purification and enlightenment, and mystagogy. Participants engage in study, prayer, and community involvement, culminating in receiving the sacraments of initiation—Baptism, Confirmation, and Eucharist—typically at the Easter Vigil. This journey allows individuals to deepen their understanding of the faith and integrate into the Catholic community.