An annulment (legally a “nullity”) is different from a divorce: it declares that a marriage was never legally valid. It’s only available in specific situations, and the burden is on you to prove the grounds. Here is how it works in California.
Annulment vs. divorce
A divorce ends a valid marriage; an annulment says the marriage was never valid to begin with. Annulments are harder to get and have strict grounds and deadlines.
Grounds for annulment
California allows nullity for reasons such as bigamy, incest, being underage at marriage, fraud, force, unsound mind, or physical incapacity. Some grounds have time limits.
How to file
You file the Petition (FL-100) selecting “nullity,” serve your spouse, and prove your grounds at a hearing. If children are involved, the court still addresses custody and support.
How Curbside Legal helps
We prepare your nullity petition and supporting paperwork, court-ready. See family law pricing or start your intake.
Curbside Legal is a legal document preparation service, not a law firm, and does not provide legal advice. Court fees are separate.