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Ryan E. Gatti, Attorney At Law Ryan E. Gatti, Attorney At Law
Serving Northwest Louisiana for 25 Years 318-633-0186
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Annulment

Shreveport Annulment Attorney

What Is the Difference Between an Annulment and a Divorce?

There are many reasons why a couple would choose to end their marriage. In Louisiana, there are two ways to do this: by divorce or by annulment. In a divorce, a couple legally ends their marriage. In an annulment, a couple declares that their marriage was never valid in the first place. This means that, in the eyes of the law, the marriage never existed.

There are many requirements that must be met in order to get an annulment in Louisiana. The process can be complicated, so it is important to have an experienced Shreveport annulment lawyer by your side to help you through it.

At Ryan E. Gatti, Attorney At Law, we have been helping people in Shreveport and the surrounding areas get annulments for over 15 years. We know what the courts are looking for when it comes to granting an annulment, and we can help you prove your case. We will also be there to help you with any other family law issues that may arise, such as child custody and child support. 

Contact us today at (318) 633-0186 to learn more about our annulment services in Shreveport, LA.

What Are the Requirements to Get an Annulment?

There are several requirements that must be met in order to get an annulment in Louisiana. These requirements include:

  • One or both spouses were underage at the time of the marriage
  • One spouse was already married at the time of the marriage
  • The couple is related by blood
  • One or both spouses were not of sound mind at the time of the marriage
  • One spouse was forced or coerced into getting married
  • One spouse is unable to have sexual intercourse

If you do not meet one of these requirements, you cannot get an annulment in Louisiana. However, you may still be able to get a divorce. If you are unsure which option is best for you, our Shreveport annulment attorney can help you decide.

How Do I Get an Annulment in Louisiana?

Getting an annulment in Louisiana is a complicated process. You will need to fill out several forms and provide the court with information about your marriage. You will also need to attend a hearing in front of a judge. The judge will decide whether or not to grant your annulment based on the information you provide. If your annulment is granted, you will need to get a certified copy of the court's decision and file it with the clerk of court. This will officially end your marriage.

Because the process is so complex, it is important to have an experienced Shreveport annulment lawyer by your side to help you through it. Ryan E. Gatti, Attorney At Law can help you fill out the necessary forms, gather the required documents, and prepare you for your hearing. We will also be there to represent you in court and make sure that your rights are protected. We know what it takes to get an annulment in Louisiana, and we will fight to help you get one.

Benefits of Annulment in Louisiana

While annulments are relatively rare compared to divorces, they offer some distinct legal, emotional, and financial benefits, especially in cases where the marriage was entered into under questionable or unlawful circumstances.

Here are the key benefits of an annulment in Louisiana:

  • Legal Erasure of the Marriage: An annulment legally treats the marriage as if it never happened. This can help you move forward without the ongoing legal or emotional ties of a valid marriage.
  • Avoidance of Spousal Support Obligations: Annulments typically remove any obligation to pay spousal support or alimony. This can provide a financial advantage, especially in short-term or fraudulent marriages.
  • Protection Against Fraud or Coercion: If the marriage was entered into under false pretenses or pressure, an annulment can release you from those legal ties. It ensures that you're not bound by a marriage based on deceit or force.
  • Clear Property Division Rules: Because annulled marriages are considered invalid, Louisiana’s community property laws may not fully apply. This can allow you to retain your personal property without it being subject to marital division.
  • No Waiting Period or Separation Requirements: Unlike divorce, annulments do not require a mandatory separation or waiting period. This often makes the process faster and less complicated.
  • Restoration of Legal Status: Once annulled, both parties revert to their legal status as single individuals. This can simplify future legal matters, such as taxes, benefits, and remarriage.
  • May Affect Custody and Support Differently: While children from an annulled marriage are still legally recognized, annulment may make it easier to address custody and support issues. It also clarifies parental rights when fraud or bad faith was involved.
  • Religious Acceptance: Some religious institutions, like the Catholic Church, require a civil annulment before granting a church annulment. This step is often necessary for remarriage within certain faiths.
  • Psychological Closure: An annulment can offer emotional relief by affirming that the marriage was never valid. For many, this provides a cleaner closure than a divorce would.

Commonly Asked Questions

Can an annulment be granted if one spouse was forced or coerced into getting married?

Yes, one of the requirements for an annulment in Louisiana is if one spouse was forced or coerced into getting married. If this requirement is met, an annulment may be granted.

What happens if I do not meet the requirements for an annulment in Louisiana?

If you do not meet the requirements for an annulment in Louisiana, you may still be able to pursue a divorce as an alternative option. Consulting with a Shreveport annulment lawyer can help you understand the best course of action for your situation.

Is it necessary to attend a hearing in front of a judge to get an annulment in Louisiana?

Yes, in order to get an annulment in Louisiana, it is necessary to attend a hearing in front of a judge. The judge will review the information provided and make a decision on whether to grant the annulment.

How long does the annulment process typically take in Louisiana?

The length of the annulment process in Louisiana can vary depending on the complexity of the case and the court's schedule. It is advisable to consult with a Shreveport annulment attorney to get an estimate of the timeline for your specific situation.

Contact Our Shreveport Annulment Attorney Today

Are you looking to get an annulment in Louisiana? If so, you need the help of an experienced Shreveport annulment lawyer. At Ryan E. Gatti, Attorney At Law, we have been helping people in Shreveport and the surrounding areas get annulments for over 15 years. We know what it takes to get an annulment in Louisiana, and we can help you get one. We serve clients across Northwest Louisiana, including those in Shreveport, Bossier City, and Bossier Parish.

Contact us today to schedule a consultation with our Shreveport annulment attorney. We look forward to helping you end your marriage and start the next chapter of your life.

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