ISSUE: What is a declaration of nullity? RESPONSE: A declaration of nullity is not a divorce. A divorce recognizes a marriage existed but allows common life to end. A declaration of nullity is a decree by a Church court stating that a marriage never existed. In a case of marriage nullity, the judges must determine if the minimum requirements of marriage were met, not if the ideal marriage was achieved. If minimum requirements were met, the validity of the marriage is upheld. DISCUSSION: Many people explain marriage nullity as being a statement by the Church that a particular marriage was … Continue reading →