Marriage Annulment Lawyer Manassas Park — What Are the Grounds?
A marriage annulment in Manassas Park is a legal decree that a marriage is void from its start, unlike a divorce which ends a valid marriage. Grounds are strict under Va. Code § 20-89.1, such as bigamy, incest, or underage marriage without consent. A marriage annulment lawyer Manassas Park from Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
Virginia Annulment Law and Statute
Virginia law provides two paths for annulment: void marriages (invalid from the start) and voidable marriages (can be invalidated by a court). A void marriage lawyer Manassas Park can explain the critical difference. Void marriages, like those involving bigamy or incest, are automatically invalid, and any interested party can seek a declaration. Voidable marriages, such as those based on fraud, impotence, or lack of mental capacity, require a formal annulment petition filed by one of the spouses within a specific time frame. The primary statute governing annulments is Va. Code § 20-89.1.
Last verified: April 2026 | Manassas Park Circuit Court | Virginia General Assembly
Official Legal Resources
For the full text of Virginia’s annulment statutes, refer to the official Virginia marriage laws. All annulment petitions for Manassas Park residents are filed with the Manassas Park Circuit Court located at 9311 Lee Avenue, Suite 230, Manassas, VA 20110.
Procedural Steps for an Annulment in Manassas Park
Seeking an annulment requires precise legal procedure. The court scrutinizes annulment petitions closely, requiring clear and convincing evidence of the statutory grounds. For instance, proving fraud requires more than simple disagreement; it must be a fraud that goes to the essence of the marriage contract.
- Consult with a marriage annulment petition lawyer Manassas Park to review your situation and identify viable grounds under Virginia law.
- Gather Evidence, such as birth certificates proving underage status, prior marriage records for bigamy, or medical/psychological evaluations.
- File the Annulment Petition with the Manassas Park Circuit Court clerk, paying the required filing fee and ensuring proper service of process on your spouse.
- Attend the Court Hearing, where you must present your evidence. If the petition is uncontested, the process may be simpler.
- Obtain the Final Decree from the judge. If granted, the decree legally declares the marriage null and void.
Why Choose Our Manassas Park Annulment Attorneys
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris. Our firm brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to complex family law matters. Mr. Sris personally played a role in amending Virginia’s equitable distribution statute, Va. Code § 20-107.3, demonstrating deep involvement in Virginia family law. We understand the sensitive nature of annulment cases and provide direct, clear guidance.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Samantha Rae Powers, Associate Attorney at Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Licensed in VA, FL. Experienced family law and civil litigator. View Samantha Rae Powers’s Profile
Our managing attorney, Mr. Sris, a former prosecutor with a background in accounting, provides strategic oversight on complex cases involving financial disclosures or asset issues that can arise in annulment proceedings.
Local Presence and Accessibility
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
4008 Williamsburg Ct, Fairfax, VA 22032
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (703) 636-5417
By appointment only.
Our Fairfax location serves clients in Manassas Park and the surrounding communities. We offer 24/7 phone consultations for your convenience. Meetings are held by appointment at our office, which is accessible via major highways including I-66 and Route 28.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between an annulment and a divorce in Virginia?
Yes, there is a major difference. A divorce ends a legally valid marriage. An annulment is a legal declaration that a valid marriage never existed due to specific defects at the time of the wedding, as defined by Va. Code § 20-89.1.
What are the most common grounds for an annulment in Virginia?
Common void grounds include bigamy or incest. Common voidable grounds include one party being underage without consent, lack of mental capacity, fraud, force, or physical incapacity (impotence) that existed at the time of marriage and is incurable.
How long do I have to file for an annulment based on fraud?
It depends on the nature of the fraud. Generally, you must file within two years of discovering the fraud. However, timelines can vary based on the specific circumstances, making prompt consultation with a marriage annulment lawyer Manassas Park crucial.
Can I get an annulment if my spouse lied about wanting children?
It depends. Virginia courts may consider this fraud going to the essence of the marriage contract if the lie was about a fundamental matter like the intent to have children, especially if it was discussed prior to marriage. Proving it requires strong evidence.
What happens to property and children after an annulment?
Since an annulment voids the marriage, there is no “marital property” to divide under equitable distribution. However, the court can issue orders for child custody, support, and the division of jointly held assets based on principles of equity and contract law.
Related Legal Services in Manassas Park
If you are exploring your options, you may also need information about divorce in Manassas Park or criminal defense. For all Virginia family law matters, visit our Virginia family law hub.
Last verified: April 2026. Laws change. Contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.