An annulment declares a marriage legally void, as if it never existed, unlike a divorce that remains on record. If you need to invalidate your marriage in Hidalgo County, a skilled McAllen divorce lawyer is essential. At Barrera Sanchez & Associates, we guide you through Texas’s strict annulment requirements and procedures, protecting your rights every step of the way.
What Is an Annulment?
An annulment is a court judgment that a marriage was never valid. When granted, it erases the legal existence of the union:
- No record of divorce remains
- Property and debt division follow specialized rules
- Spousal rights under the Texas Family Code are nullified
Because annulments are more complicated to obtain than divorces, you must prove specific grounds, and our McAllen divorce lawyers excel at building the precise record needed for success.
Grounds for Annulment in Texas
To qualify, one of these legally recognized grounds must apply at the time of marriage:
- Impotence: One spouse is permanently unable to engage in sexual relations due to a physical or mental condition.
- Lack of Consent (Under the Influence): You lacked capacity to consent because of drugs, alcohol, or mental impairment and did not cohabit afterward.
- Fraud, Duress, or Force: Your spouse lied about a material fact, coerced you with threats, or forced you into the marriage against your will.
Our team investigates medical records, expert testimony, and affidavits to substantiate your claim.
Benefits of Annulment vs. Divorce
- Clean Record: No divorce appears on your public history.
- Simplified Asset Division: Estate and community property are treated as never jointly owned.
- No Waiting Period: In some cases, annulments proceed faster than the 60-day divorce waiting period.
- Religious Considerations: For those whose faith prohibits divorce, annulment may satisfy religious requirements.
Why Choose Barrera Sanchez & Associates?
As your dedicated McAllen divorce lawyer for annulment, we offer:
- Local Knowledge: Hidalgo County judges and clerks know our reputation.
- Focused Expertise: Solely family law—no distractions from other practice areas.
- Personalized Strategy: Tailored legal plans to meet your unique annulment grounds.
- Transparent Pricing: Flat-fee annulment packages with clear, upfront costs.
- Discreet Handling: Sensitive matters remain confidential and respectful.
Our Annulment Process
- Free Initial Consultation
We evaluate your eligibility and outline next steps. - Case Investigation
Collect medical reports, witness statements, and evidence supporting your claim. - Petition Preparation
Draft and file the annulment petition in McAllen family court. - Notice & Response
Serve your spouse and address any responses or counterclaims. - Court Hearing
Present evidence and legal arguments before the judge. - Final Decree
Once granted, the annulment decree is entered—your marriage is legally void.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How long does an annulment take?
A: Timelines vary by court backlog, but many annulments conclude in 2–4 months.
Q: Can I get alimony after an annulment?
A: No—since the marriage is deemed never valid, spousal support generally isn’t available.
Q: What if my spouse contests the annulment?
A: We handle contested annulments by gathering robust evidence and advocating zealously in court.
Q: Will an annulment affect the legitimacy of my children?
A: Texas law protects the legitimacy of children, even if the marriage is annulled; parental rights remain intact.
Schedule Your FREE Consultation
Don’t navigate the complexities of annulment alone. Our experienced McAllen divorce lawyer team is ready to assess your case, gather evidence, and pursue a successful annulment.