Annulment in Florida

In the unique legal landscape of Florida, where no specific statutes govern annulment, the dissolution of a marriage through annulment remains grounded in the state’s common law tradition. This practice, unlike divorce, revolves around the concept of identifying and proving the existence of an “impediment” that invalidates the marriage from its inception. As a dedicated family law attorney based in Fort Lauderdale, FL, I am committed to guiding clients through the intricate process of annulment under Florida law.

Key Grounds for Annulment in Florida

Annulment challenges the validity of a marriage based on foundational impediments, rendering it null and void as if it never legally occurred. The primary grounds for seeking an annulment in Florida include:

• Non-Age: Florida’s legal age for marriage consent is 18. Exceptions exist for younger individuals with parental consent or for those who are or expect to become parents, highlighting the state’s protection of minors in contractual agreements, including marriage.
• Consanguinity: Florida law prohibits marriages between individuals closely related by blood, safeguarding against the legal and ethical concerns associated with incestuous relationships.
• Bigamy: Engaging in marriage with someone who is already legally married to another person is not only grounds for annulment but also constitutes a criminal offense in Florida, reflecting the legal commitment to monogamous marriages.
• Physical Incapacity: The inability to consummate the marriage, distinct from issues of infertility or sterility, challenges the physical and sexual foundations of marital relations, providing grounds for annulment.
• Beyond the Basics: Other Considerations

The reasons for seeking an annulment extend into more complex issues such as fraud, lack of mental capacity, sham marriages, and coercion, including the notorious “shotgun weddings.” These cases often involve a partner’s deceit or manipulation to gain marital consent, undermining the genuine intent required for a valid marriage.

Why Choose Attorney Gabriel Carrera?

With a practice deeply rooted in Florida family law since 2007, I, Attorney Gabriel Carrera, offer expert guidance to those facing the challenges of annulment. Recognizing the sensitive nature of such cases, I provide personalized and compassionate legal support, ensuring that your rights are protected throughout this difficult process.

If you suspect that your marriage was established under fraudulent conditions, or if you believe that other legal impediments invalidate your union, I am here to help. Contact me, Attorney Gabriel Carrera, at any time via phone at (954)-533-7593 or email at [email protected] to explore your legal options and begin the journey toward resolving your marital concerns with confidence and clarity.