Understanding the Grounds for Annulment in Virginia

What are the grounds for annulment in Virginia? In Virginia, annulment has a strict set of rules. Most marriages don't meet the qualifications to be annulled, and will have to be ended through divorce. If you're considering annulment, it's a good idea to learn about the guidelines that apply to it.

The first type of marriage that qualifies for annulment is one in which there was a problem or defect in the ceremony itself, making it illegal from the start:  

• if the person who performed the ceremony wasn't a licensed officiate;
• if the partners were close blood relatives; and
• if one of the partners was married to someone else at the time of the wedding ceremony. 

The second kind of marriage that can be dissolved by Virginia annulment is one where a partner withheld an important piece of information from the other. The most common examples would be cases in which a partner fails to mention his or her infertility, a previous sex change operation or some other major issue that would have an affect on the marriage.

Fraud is the third ground for annulment in Virginia. Fraud is when one partner intentionally tries to trick the other for financial gain or other reasons. This can happen in "green card" marriages and scams and well as other situations.

These annulment grounds can sometimes be difficult to prove. If you want to know whether an annulment is possible in your case, speak with an attorney right away. 

Contacting a Virginia Divorce Attorney

At this vulnerable time, it's critical that you have exceptional legal representation that not only understands the specifics of your case, but is dedicated to your best interests and that of your family.

The Virginia divorce attorneys at Hofheimer/Ferrebee represent Virginia women who wish to file for divorce. We are committed to fighting for your rights, assisting in child custody disputes, and advocating that you receive everything you are entitled to and need in order to start your new life. You can learn more by requesting one of our FREE divorce guides for women, or reserving your seat at our monthly divorce seminar - 757-425-5200.