The Catholic Church Annulment Process, Explained Step by Step
By The Annulment Lawyers Editorial Team · 2026-06-05
A Catholic annulment - properly called a declaration of nullity - is a finding by a Church tribunal that a marriage thought to be valid was in fact not sacramentally binding. It is distinct from a civil annulment, which is a ruling by a civil court.
Who can request a declaration of nullity
Either former spouse may petition. You typically begin through your parish priest or deacon, who connects you with the diocesan tribunal.
The tribunal steps
- Filing the petition with the tribunal through your parish.
- Gathering testimony from the petitioner, the former spouse (the respondent), and witnesses.
- Review by the tribunal and a defender of the bond.
- The decision, which may be appealed.
How it differs from a civil annulment
A civil annulment addresses the legal status of the marriage; a declaration of nullity addresses its sacramental validity. Many people pursue a civil divorce or annulment first, then seek the Church process.