Dissolution of marriage and annulment are distinct authorized processes that terminate a marital union in Arizona. Nevertheless, they function underneath completely different ideas and have completely different authorized penalties. A dissolution, generally generally known as a divorce, acknowledges {that a} legitimate marriage existed however has irretrievably damaged down. An annulment, alternatively, declares {that a} legitimate marriage by no means existed within the first place as a consequence of particular authorized impediments.
Understanding these distinctions is essential for people considering the top of their marriage. The selection between these authorized avenues can considerably affect property division, spousal help eligibility, and future authorized proceedings. Traditionally, annulments have been extra frequent when societal norms positioned a larger emphasis on the sanctity of marriage and when divorce legal guidelines have been extra restrictive. Right now, whereas divorce is extra prevalent, annulment stays a viable choice in particular circumstances.
