Chesapeake Marriage Annulment Lawyer — What Are Your Legal Options?
An annulment legally declares a marriage void, as if it never existed, under Virginia law. A marriage annulment lawyer Chesapeake from Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. can guide you through the strict grounds required at Chesapeake Circuit Court. Our firm has handled numerous family law matters in the area. For immediate help with your marriage annulment petition lawyer Chesapeake can rely on, contact us.
Last verified: April 2026 | Chesapeake Circuit Court | Virginia General Assembly
In Virginia, an annulment is distinct from a divorce. While a divorce ends a valid marriage, an annulment establishes that the marriage was never legally valid from the start. The grounds for annulment are specific and limited, requiring clear legal proof. Successfully handling this process demands a precise understanding of Virginia statutes and local court procedures.
The primary statute governing annulments in Virginia is Va. Code § 20-89.1. This law outlines the specific circumstances under which a marriage can be declared void or voidable. It is critical to consult with a knowledgeable marriage annulment lawyer Chesapeake to determine if your situation meets these legal standards.
Virginia Annulment Law and Grounds
Virginia recognizes two types of annulments: void marriages and voidable marriages. A void marriage is invalid from the outset, and any party can challenge it at any time. Grounds for a void marriage include bigamy (one party was already legally married), incest, or if a party was under the age of 16 at the time of marriage.
A voidable marriage is considered valid until a court annuls it. Grounds for a voidable marriage include fraud, duress, impotence, or mental incapacity at the time of the marriage. The petition must be filed by an injured party, and there are often strict time limits. For instance, an annulment based on fraud must typically be sought within two years of discovering the fraud.
- Consult with a marriage annulment lawyer Chesapeake to review your case and identify viable grounds under Va. Code § 20-89.1.
- Gather all necessary evidence, such as marriage certificates, proof of prior marriage, medical records, or documentation of fraud.
- Your attorney will file a formal Bill of Complaint for Annulment with the Chesapeake Circuit Court clerk and arrange for service to the other party.
- Prepare for any necessary hearings, where your lawyer will present evidence and legal arguments to the judge.
- If granted, the court will enter a Decree of Annulment, legally declaring the marriage null and void.
External Legal Resources
For the official text of Virginia’s annulment statutes, visit the Virginia General Assembly website (Va. Code § 20-89.1). To review local filing procedures and forms, access the Chesapeake Circuit Court official website.
Why Choose Our Firm for Your Annulment Case
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris. Our firm brings over 120 years of combined attorney 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 a deep commitment to shaping family law. We approach each annulment case with the detailed attention it requires.
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
Case Results and Client Advocacy
Our firm has a documented record of favorable outcomes in family law across our service areas. In Chesapeake and surrounding communities, we work diligently to protect our clients’ rights and achieve resolutions that align with their legal needs.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Firm founder Mr. Sris, a former prosecutor with a background in accounting, provides valuable oversight on cases involving financial details or requiring multi-jurisdictional knowledge.
Contact Our Chesapeake Annulment Attorneys
Our Richmond location serves clients with family law matters in Chesapeake. We are accessible via I-64 and other major routes. If you need a void marriage lawyer Chesapeake residents trust for clear guidance, we are here to help.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
7400 Beaufont Springs Dr, Suite 300, Rm 395
Richmond, VA 23225
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (804)201-9009
By appointment only. 24/7 phone consultations.
We serve clients in Chesapeake, Deep Creek, Great Bridge, and Greenbrier.
Annulment Lawyer Chesapeake FAQs
What is the difference between an annulment and a divorce in Virginia?
No. A divorce ends a valid marriage, while an annulment declares the marriage legally invalid from the beginning, as if it never existed.
Grounds are strict and limited to specific circumstances like fraud, bigamy, or incapacity, as defined under Va. Code § 20-89.1. A marriage annulment lawyer Chesapeake can evaluate if your case qualifies.
How long do I have to file for an annulment in Virginia?
It depends on the grounds. For fraud, you typically must file within two years of discovering it. For impotence, the petition must be filed before cohabitation resumes. There is no time limit for void marriages like bigamy. A marriage annulment petition lawyer Chesapeake can advise on your specific deadline.
What are the grounds for a void marriage in Virginia?
Yes. Grounds include bigamy (one spouse was already married), incestuous relationships, or if a party was under 16 at the time of marriage without court approval. These marriages are considered invalid from the start.
A void marriage lawyer Chesapeake can help you petition the court for a formal declaration of nullity.
Can I get an annulment if my spouse lied to me?
It depends. Fraud must go to the essence of the marriage—such as lying about the desire to have children or concealing a fundamental fact—to be grounds for annulment. Simple deceit may not be sufficient. Proving fraud requires strong evidence.
Where is an annulment filed in Chesapeake, VA?
Annulment cases are filed in the Chesapeake Circuit Court, located at 307 Albemarle Drive. The process begins with filing a Bill of Complaint for Annulment and serving the other party. Local procedural rules must be followed precisely.
Related Legal Services in Chesapeake
If you are dealing with other family law issues, our firm also provides representation in Chesapeake divorce cases, child custody, and support matters. For legal concerns in nearby areas, see our family law services in Henrico County. For a full overview of our practice, visit our Virginia Family Law hub page.
Page last verified and updated: April 2026. Laws and procedures can change. Contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current legal guidance regarding your annulment case.