Confidently handling your legal needs
Annulment differs fundamentally from divorce by declaring a marriage legally invalid rather than ending a valid union. At MorenoLawKC, we understand the unique circumstances that lead clients to seek annulments—from fraud and concealment to legal impediments preventing valid marriage. Our Kansas City annulment attorneys navigate these sensitive cases with discretion and expertise, working to establish the specific grounds required under Missouri law while protecting your interests regarding property, support, and children born during the relationship.
Historical overview
Annulment law originated in ecclesiastical courts where religious doctrine prohibited divorce, making annulment the only path to remarriage. Missouri's secular annulment statutes preserve this remedy for marriages that never should have existed legally. Kansas City courts strictly interpret annulment grounds, distinguishing between void marriages (invalid from inception) and voidable marriages (valid until challenged). This framework protects marriage sanctity while providing relief when fraud, incapacity, or legal barriers undermined true consent.
Explore the business
• Fraud and misrepresentation claims
• Bigamy and existing marriage issues
• Mental incapacity and intoxication cases
• Underage marriage challenges
• Religious annulment coordination
Benefits of our legal advisor
Our working process
Annulment cases require immediate evaluation to determine viable grounds and preserve evidence. We conduct thorough intake interviews, identifying specific facts supporting fraud, incapacity, or legal impediments. Our investigation gathers documentation, witness statements, and expert testimony establishing your grounds. We then file strategic pleadings and pursue expedited hearings when appropriate. Throughout proceedings, we work to protect your property interests and establish custody arrangements despite the marriage's invalidity.
Through the ages
The discovery phase in annulment proceedings focuses intensely on circumstances surrounding marriage formation. We investigate representations made during courtship, mental states at marriage, and any concealed impediments. This concentrated fact-finding often reveals painful truths but builds the evidentiary foundation necessary for annulment.
Proving annulment grounds requires presenting clear evidence to skeptical courts that presume marriage validity. We methodically establish each element through documentation, testimony, and expert witnesses when needed. This exacting process demands both legal precision and compelling storytelling to overcome judicial reluctance.
Post-annulment issues mirror divorce concerns—property division, support obligations, and custody arrangements must still be resolved. We ensure these practical matters receive proper attention despite the marriage's invalidity, protecting your interests and your children's welfare going forward.
Culmination
When marriages begin through fraud, incapacity, or legal impediment, annulment provides the path to freedom and fresh starts. At MorenoLawKC, we bring expertise and understanding to these complex proceedings, working diligently to establish grounds while protecting your practical interests. Our commitment to thorough preparation and aggressive advocacy helps clients move beyond invalid marriages toward authentic futures. Contact us today to explore whether annulment offers the right solution for your unique circumstances.
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the difference between annulment and divorce?
Annulment treats the marriage as if it never legally existed, while divorce ends a valid marriage.
What are grounds for annulment in Missouri and Kansas?
Grounds include fraud, duress, incapacity, underage marriage, bigamy, or lack of consent.
How long do I have to file for annulment?
Time limits vary by grounds, but generally must be filed relatively soon after discovering the invalidating condition.
What happens to children and property in an annulment?
Children are still considered legitimate, and courts will address custody and support. Property division follows similar principles to divorce.
Is annulment easier than divorce?
No, annulments require proving specific legal grounds and can be more complex than no-fault divorce proceedings.
Can I get an annulment for religious reasons?
Civil annulment is separate from religious annulment; you may pursue both through different processes.
