Identification

• Often an annulment and dissolution of a marriage are confused and considered to be the same thing. While both procedures terminate a marriage, there are significant differences. There are specific reasons for each process.
  
  

Dissolution

• Dissolution of marriage or domestic partnership is also known as a divorce. A divorce is a proceeding that ends a legal marriage. Dissolution of a marriage is granted because of irreconcilable differences between partners.
  
  

Annulment

• An annulment action voids a marriage and renders it a marriage that never existed. Grounds for annulment includes fraud, force, mental illness and other impairments surrounding the ceremony.
  
  

Considerations

• With annulment or dissolution, when children are involved support, visitation and care must be determined. This cause is heard and decided in a court of law. Division of property or alimony is generally not considered with an annulment.
  
  

Potential

• According to experts at My Family Law, either proceeding can be presented to a court without legal representation. However, depending upon the complexity of the situation, seeking legal advice is advisable.