Are children of the marriage declared null or considered illegitimate?
No. Church law states that such children are legitimate. What if a person has been married more than once? Each of the unions would have to be considered separately. Are there costs? Yes. The Tribunal charges a standard fee. Financial difficulties do not hinder the processing of a petition. Is it all worthwhile? In seeking an annulment there are sometimes painful and anxious moments. Nonetheless, most find the process and the sensitive approach of the Tribunal staff an experience of healing and wholeness. A decree of nullity clears the way to enter a marriage with the full blessing of the Catholic Church, if the proposed spouse is also free to marry according to Catholic Church law. For those who have already entered another union, a decree of nullity offers the possibility of having that union recognized by the Catholic Church, if the other party is also free to marry according to Catholic Church law. Before marrying or having a union recognized by the Catholic Church, counselling is
