Sometimes a marriage is not just difficult—it may never have been legally valid in the first place. When that happens, an annulment may be an option.
Unlike a divorce, which ends a lawful marriage, an annulment legally erases the marriage as though it never existed. While annulments are rare in Washington, they can be important for those whose marriage began under circumstances that made it invalid from the start.
At Story Law in Bellevue, our family law attorneys help clients understand their options and make sense of what can feel like an unfamiliar process. This guide explains when annulments apply, what the process looks like, and how our firm can support you.
What Is an Annulment?
An annulment is a court order declaring that a marriage was never legally valid. Once granted, it means the marriage never existed in the eyes of the law.
People often seek an annulment because of issues such as fraud, coercion, or lack of consent at the time of marriage. Others pursue one for religious reasons or to clear confusion about their marital status.
It’s important to understand that a religious annulment is different from a legal one. A church or religious body can recognize a marriage as void within that faith, but only the court can issue a civil annulment in Washington State.
Legal Grounds for Annulments in Washington
Washington courts use the term “declaration of invalidity” instead of annulment. These declarations are granted only under specific conditions. A marriage may be invalid if:
- One or both spouses were under 18 and did not have proper consent
- One or both spouses were already married to someone else
- The marriage was entered into under fraud, coercion, or force
- One spouse lacked the mental capacity to consent
- The marriage violated laws regarding close family relationships
If none of these conditions exist, divorce is usually the proper path to end the relationship.
How the Annulment Process Works
The process begins when one spouse files a Petition for Declaration of Invalidity with the Superior Court. The other spouse then has the opportunity to respond.
A judge reviews evidence to determine if the marriage meets any of the legal grounds for annulment. If the court finds the marriage invalid, an order is issued declaring it void from the beginning. Both parties are then legally considered unmarried.
Because annulments are less common than divorces, it’s wise to work with a family law attorney who can prepare your petition and help present your case effectively.
Annulments vs. Divorce: What’s the Difference?
While both annulments and divorces end relationships, their legal outcomes differ:
- A divorce ends a valid marriage.
- An annulment declares that no valid marriage ever existed.
That said, annulments don’t automatically erase every legal issue that arose during the relationship. Courts may still address property, debts, or support if one person depended financially on the other.
What Happens to Children and Property?
A common misconception is that children of annulled marriages become “illegitimate.” That is not true in Washington State. The law protects children’s rights regardless of their parents’ marital status.
If a couple shares children, the court will handle custody, visitation, and child support the same way it would in a divorce. Property and debt division can also occur if fairness requires it.
These issues are handled with the same care and attention as any other family law case.
When Should You Seek an Annulment?
While there’s no strict deadline to request an annulment, acting sooner is always better. Evidence can become harder to find over time, and waiting too long can make your case more difficult to prove.
If your marriage doesn’t meet the legal criteria for annulment, you still have the option to file for divorce. A divorce attorney can help you determine which process fits your situation best.
When to Contact a Divorce Attorney in Bellevue
Determining whether your marriage qualifies for an annulment or needs to go through the divorce process can be confusing. A divorce attorney in Bellevue can help you understand your rights and guide you through filing the correct legal documents.
At Story Law, we approach each case with care and respect. Our goal is to help you find clarity and peace of mind while protecting your future.
How Story Law Can Help
For more than three decades, Story Law in Bellevue has helped families throughout Washington with compassion and integrity. Our attorneys handle annulments, divorces, separations, and parenting matters with a commitment to fairness and understanding.
We help clients by:
- Reviewing whether their marriage qualifies for annulment
- Preparing and filing the necessary court documents
- Representing them during hearings
- Addressing related custody, support, or property issues
We know that ending a marriage—whether by annulment or divorce—is deeply personal. Our approach focuses on providing practical solutions and emotional support at every step.
Finding Clarity and Moving Forward
Annulments in Washington State are specific, but they serve an important role when a marriage should never have existed in the first place. Understanding how annulments differ from divorce allows you to make informed choices about your next steps.
If you believe your marriage may qualify for an annulment, or if you simply want to understand your options, Story Law in Bellevue, WA can help. Talk with one of our family law attorneys today to discuss your situation privately and thoughtfully.
