Annulment vs. Divorce Arizona: Key Considerations Explained

When it comes to ending a marriage, there are two primary legal options available in Arizona—annulment and divorce. While both processes result in the dissolution of a marriage, they differ significantly in terms of their legal implications and requirements. As experts in family law, the Law Office of Cosmas Onyia is here to guide you through the key considerations when choosing between annulment and divorce in Arizona.

Annulment in Arizona

An annulment is a legal procedure that declares a marriage null and void as if it never existed. Unlike a divorce, which ends a valid marriage, an annulment treats the marriage as if it never happened in the eyes of the law. However, it’s important to note that not all marriages are eligible for annulment. 

The following are some key considerations when seeking an annulment in Arizona:

Grounds for Annulment

Arizona law provides specific grounds for annulment, including bigamy, incest, lack of capacity to consent, fraud, and duress. Each ground has its own set of requirements and must be proven in court.

Legal Effect 

If an annulment is granted, the marriage is considered void from the beginning. This means that legally, the marriage never existed, and both parties revert to their pre-marital status.

Divorce in Arizona

Divorce, also known as dissolution of marriage, is the legal process of ending a valid marriage. Unlike annulment, divorce acknowledges that a valid marriage took place and seeks to dissolve it. Here are some key considerations when opting for a divorce in Arizona:

No-Fault Divorce

Arizona is a no-fault divorce state, which means that neither party needs to prove fault or wrongdoing to obtain a divorce. The only requirement is that the marriage is irretrievably broken.

Division of Assets and Debts

During a divorce, the court will determine the division of marital assets and debts. Arizona follows the principle of community property, which means that marital property is generally divided equitably between the spouses.

Child Custody and Child Support

If the couple has children, the court will make decisions regarding child support after divorce based on the best interests of the child. Arizona encourages joint custody, but the court will consider various factors when making a custody determination. That’s why it’s imperative to have a strong child custody lawyer in Phoenix on your side.

Why Choose the Law Office of Cosmas Onyia

Whether you’re looking to pursue annulment or divorce in Arizona, it’s crucial to have expert legal guidance. The Law Office of Cosmas Onyia specializes in family law matters and has extensive experience in handling annulment and divorce cases. Here’s why you should choose us:

Expertise

Our team of attorneys has in-depth knowledge of Arizona family law and understands the nuances of annulment and divorce proceedings.

Personalized Approach

We recognize that each case is unique, and we provide personalized attention to every client. We’ll listen to your concerns, explain your options, and guide you through the legal process.

Strong Advocacy

We are committed to protecting your rights and advocating for your best interests. Our attorneys will work diligently to achieve the best possible outcome for your case.

Contact Us Today

When considering the end of a marriage in Arizona, it is essential to understand the key differences between annulment and divorce. A divorce lawyer or family law attorney from the Law Office of Cosmas Onyia is your trusted partner in navigating these complex legal processes. 

With our expertise and personalized approach, we will ensure that your rights are protected and your interests are represented. Contact us today for a consultation and let us guide you through this challenging time.