Birmingham Annulment Lawyer
There are many reasons people sometimes want to file for an annulment rather than a divorce. However, not everyone qualifies for an annulment and the process always has the potential to become complex. If you wish to end your marriage through an annulment, it is important to obtain legal advice. Our Birmingham annulment lawyer explains more about the process below.
How to Obtain an Annulment in Alabama
Divorces and annulments are similar in the way that they both analyze and determine the status of the marriage, and they both result in the legal relationship coming to an end. By getting a divorce, couples can end their marriage but they are still legally married to each other in the eyes of the law. An annulment, on the other hand, makes it appear as though the marriage never actually existed.
Annulments are not as common as divorces, largely because they are only available in certain situations. These are as follows:
- One party was unable to consent due to alcohol, drug, or a mental condition,
- Misrepresentation of one party to another before the marriage,
- Either party only consented to the marriage because they were fearful,
- Polygamy, incest, or bigamy was part of the marriage,
- At least one spouse was under the age of 18 when they got married, and their parent or legal guardian did not consent, or
- One party thought the wedding was a dare or a joke.
Even when one of the above situations applies, it does not necessarily mean a couple can obtain an annulment. For example, if you were married in another state and the law there still viewed one of the above situations as a legitimate marriage, the courts in Alabama will also honor the marriage.
Timeline to File an Annulment
Like divorce, an annulment case begins when the papers are filed with the court. These papers must be filed within a certain amount of time, and the timeline varies. For example, if you are trying to obtain an annulment because you have not consummated your marriage, you have one year to file your petition for annulment. When a marriage involves one or both spouses who were under the age of 18, you must file the petition within two years.
Annulments can quickly become complex, and you will have to present strong evidence that proves the alleged reasons for your annulment. An annulment lawyer can analyze the facts of your case to determine the grounds for annulment, and then advise on the important evidence that can help you prove it.
Call Our Annulment Lawyer in Birmingham Today
If you believe your marriage should have never existed, it is critical to speak to a Birmingham annulment lawyer to obtain sound legal advice. At Peeples Law, our experienced attorney can determine if you qualify for an annulment, guide you through the process, and give you the best chance of a possible outcome. Call us now at 205-403-5577 or contact us online to schedule a consultation and to learn more about your legal options.
