Does a declaration of nullity for a marriage have any civil effects?
No. Marriage cases that have been confirmed as invalid through the Church process have no civil effects. Issues such as child support and visitation, property rights and alimony must be determined by a civil court. A final civil divorce decree signed by a judge must be submitted to the Marriage Tribunal for each prior marriage. Does a declaration of nullity affect the legitimacy of children? No. Legitimacy is a legal term. Church law states that the status of children born of a marriage that is later determined to be invalid in the perspective of the Church is not affected. Children are a gift from God and entitled to the love and support of parents as well as the Church. Must the Marriage Tribunal contact the other spouse? Yes. The other spouse must be notified that a formal marriage case has been submitted to the Marriage Tribunal, out of fairness and since both parties can exercise certain rights given in Church law in a formal case process. What if the address of the former spouse
