Thinking Of Getting An Annulment In Tampa? Here’s What You Need To Know
When the relationship between a couple deteriorates to the point that they no longer want to be married, a divorce serves to dissolve the legal bond between them. In contrast, getting an annulment in Tampa makes it as if the marriage never happened. Our Tampa family lawyer explains the circumstances in which an annulment may be granted and how our office can help.
Grounds For An Annulment In Tampa
Unlike a divorce, which anyone can generally get, annulments are granted only in certain, very specific situations. Unlike a divorce, which dissolves the legal vows the couple made to each other when they got married, getting a legal annulment nullifies the marriage, making it as if it never happened.
There are no specific laws addressing annulment in the Sunshine State. However, the Florida Courts provide guidance on cases in which an annulment may be applicable. Grounds for getting an annulment in Tampa include:
- You find out your spouse is married to someone else;
- You discover you have a close family relationship, such as being cousins;
- You entered the marriage under duress or were coerced;
- You were the victim of a fraud;
- You lacked mental capacity at the time the marriage took place, such as struggling with diagnosed mental health issues or suffering from active alcoholism or drug addiction.
How to Get an Annulment in Hillsborough County
In some religions, divorced individuals must obtain an annulment before they can remarry in the church or participate in another sacrament. This type of annulment adheres to guidelines established by the specific religion but has no bearing on your legal status. A legal annulment is a separate matter, dissolving the legal bond you have with your spouse and making it as if it never happened.
To get an annulment through the Hillsborough County Family Court, you must file a petition and provide evidence that the marriage meets the required criteria. You must present this evidence at a court hearing. After reviewing all the evidence, the judge will determine whether an annulment is justified.
Navigating the annulment process is complex, and you will likely face challenges getting a judge to approve your annulment request. Ways our Tampa family lawyer can help include:
- Review your situation and advise you on whether you are entitled to an annulment in Tampa;
- Gather the additional evidence needed to build a strong case;
- Make fierce and compelling legal arguments before the judge in your case about why they should grant your annulment;
- Negotiate a settlement with your former partner addressing marital property division, child time-sharing, and other important matters.
Request A Consultation Today With Our Tampa Family Lawyer
If you believe you qualify for an annulment in Tampa, do not attempt to navigate the complex legal process alone. Bubley & Bubley, P.A. has extensive experience handling annulment cases in Hillsborough County and provides the caring support and trusted representation you need. To get the best possible outcome, call or contact our office online. Request a consultation today with our Tampa family lawyer.
Sources:
hillsclerk.com/Court-Services/Family-Law/Divorce-and-Annulment
flcourts.gov/content/download/862646/file/Everything%20Else%20-%20ANNULMENT.pdf
