An annulment declares that a marriage was never valid, on specific statutory grounds such as fraud, bigamy, underage marriage, incompetence, or a marriage never consummated. The grounds are narrow and the deadlines are real. We give straight answers about whether annulment is available, and recommend the better vehicle when it is not.
Grounds and time limits
Each ground carries its own limitation period, often two years from the marriage or from discovery of the fraud. Because annulment erases the marriage rather than ending it, property and support consequences differ from divorce, sometimes to your benefit, sometimes not. The analysis comes first.
Questions We Hear First
What qualifies for an annulment in Ohio?+
Statutory grounds include underage marriage, an existing prior marriage, mental incompetence, consent obtained by fraud or force, and non-consummation. General regret or a short marriage is not a ground.
How long do I have to seek an annulment?+
Most grounds carry a two-year limitation period, measured from the marriage or from discovery of the defect, depending on the ground. Missing the window usually means divorce or dissolution instead.
Is an annulment better than a divorce?+
Sometimes, for religious or personal reasons, or where erasing the marriage benefits your financial position. Often divorce or dissolution is simpler and equally protective. We advise on the facts.