Understanding Marriage Annulment and Void Declaration in Rhode Island

Navigating Marriage Dissolution in Rhode Island

When a marriage dissolves in Rhode Island, the two parties are often eager to settle matters quickly and completely. Some believe having their marriage annulled is the best option. Unfortunately, the state does not recognize marriage annulments. Instead, they can have their marriage declared void by the courts. A declaration of voiding a marriage is similar to an annulment in that it regards the marriage as never having been legally valid.

There are very specific circumstances under which a marriage can be declared void. Meeting the criteria without the help of an experienced Rhode Island divorce attorney can be a challenge. The family law team at Kirshenbaum & Kirshenbaum can provide invaluable assistance in navigating these complex legal proceedings.

The Criteria for Declaring a Marriage Void

Getting a court-granted annulment in Rhode Island isn't possible—it's simply not part of the law. However, you can seek a legal determination from the Court that the marriage was "Void ab initio," which means it was never valid from the start. Proving this is tough; you'd have to show you didn't realize you were getting married or didn't intend to marry that person.

A void marriage might also be one that couldn't legally happen, like marrying a close relative. Bigamy, coercion, or threats could also make a marriage voidable.

Many people want an annulment because they made a quick mistake in deciding to get married. Unfortunately, that's not enough reason for an annulment in Rhode Island. You'd still have to get a divorce. A Rhode Island family law attorney can help you understand if you’re eligible for a marriage annulment.

What Eight Decades Has Taught Us About Caring for Our Clients

Maintaining a distinguished and strong reputation can be difficult for any attorney. After all, lawyers as a whole aren’t exactly seen as saints. This is why we follow a deep-rooted sense of morality and compassion that has been handed down over the generations. Our values and hard work have allowed us to create and maintain an astounding legacy of success. In addition to securing a well-founded reputation for success, we strive to ensure that our clients are 100% satisfied with our representation.

We have spent decades honing our skills in order to assure our clients’ satisfaction. As a result, we have been able to strengthen our bond with our clients. A few of the strengths and values we bring to all our interactions include:

Taking the time to ensure you completely understand the complexities of your case and understand what to expect throughout the process.

Providing respect and compassion for your situation, while remaining frank about the prospects ahead.

Working with you to plan the best course of action for you and your family.

Pursuing each case as if it were our family. We are noted for our willingness to push for a trial to get everything our clients deserve, in contrast with many other attorneys who look for the quick settlement.

Fighting for the goals you choose. We’re not afraid to take your case to court and fight respectfully for your financial security.

We are a family at Kirshenbaum & Kirshenbaum we’ve had employees that have been with for over 44 years.

Other Options for Marriage Dissolution in Rhode Island

When annulment isn't feasible, individuals in Rhode Island have alternative avenues for marriage dissolution. The most common alternative is divorce, a legal process that officially terminates a marriage. Unlike annulment, divorce acknowledges that the marriage was valid but has since irretrievably broken down.

In Rhode Island, divorces can be granted on both fault and no-fault grounds. Fault-based divorces require proof of marital misconduct, such as adultery, abandonment, or cruelty. No-fault divorces, on the other hand, do not require evidence of wrongdoing; instead, they are based on irreconcilable differences or a breakdown of the marital relationship.

Rhode Island also offers options for uncontested and contested divorces. In uncontested divorces, both parties agree on the terms of the divorce, including issues such as property division, child custody, and support. Contested divorces, on the other hand, involve disputes that require resolution through mediation or litigation.

Regardless of the path chosen, navigating the divorce process in Rhode Island can be complex and emotionally challenging. An experienced family law attorney can offer support during challenging times, ensuring the protection of your rights and striving for a just and equitable outcome in the dissolution process.

How a Rhode Island Divorce Lawyer Can Help

Understanding the process for marriage dissolution in Rhode Island can be overwhelming, but a skilled divorce lawyer can provide invaluable assistance every step of the way. The family law team at Kirshenbaum & Kirshenbaum has in-depth knowledge of state laws and regulations about marriage dissolution. They can help you understand your rights, options, and legal requirements throughout the process.

If annulment isn't feasible, your attorney can guide you through the divorce process. They can help you determine whether a fault-based or no-fault divorce is appropriate for your situation and provide representation in court proceedings.

A divorce lawyer can represent your interests during negotiations with your spouse or their attorney, striving to reach a fair and amicable settlement. They can also facilitate mediation sessions to resolve disputes outside of court. In cases where disputes cannot be resolved through negotiation or mediation, your attorney can provide skilled representation in court, advocating for your rights and interests before a judge.

After a breakup, there’s a lot on the line. From asset division to child custody arrangements, the decisions made during a divorce can have lasting impacts on your future. That’s why having a knowledgeable and experienced Rhode Island divorce attorney by your side is so crucial.