Divorce and Religious Annulments

Although you will be getting a divorce from the state of Arizona and will be legally able to remarry, ending your marriage in the eyes of your religion is a completely different process. Even if you obtain an annulment from the state, this is not the same as a religious annulment. Each religion has its own rules and procedures.

Catholic Annulment

The Catholic Church has detailed rules and steps you must follow to have your marriage annulled. The church requires that in order to obtain an annulment, there must have been something wrong with the marriage from the start. This may mean you and/or your spouse were mentally unable to make the decision to get married, one or both of you did not use your best judgment when deciding to enter into the marriage, or there was a lack of intention to remain married until death or to create children together. You must provide testimony to a diocesan tribunal and witnesses may be required. Talk to your priest to get the process started and to obtain details.

Jewish Get

A Jewish annulment is obtained when you receive a get, a document prepared by an expert in your faith, with specific language. The get is handed to the wife by the husband in the presence of witnesses and the rabbinical court. The marriage is then dissolved. Your rabbi will help you understand the steps that are necessary to obtain the dissolution.

There are also specific divorce rules within the Islamic religion and other faiths. If you have any questions about your marital status and your religion, speak with your clergy.

The Sampair Group offers years of experience in matrimonial and family law. Our attorneys provide thoughtful advice and careful representation so you get the best results possible. Call our office today for an appointment.