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Getting annulment without contacting ex-spouse

MistyDawn31
New User

Post #1 of 5 (3105 views)

Getting annulment without contacting ex-spouse

I am planning to be married in the Catholic Church to a Catholic. I was married for 6 years previously and got divorced on grounds of infidelity and abuse. We were not married in a church but we were married by a minister. I understand that I do have get the annulment but my question is how can I get the annulment without contacting my ex-husband. I would prefer not to due to the fact he does not know where I am and I do not want him to find out...

(This post was edited by the_admin on Aug 10, 2005, 9:25 AM)

Legal
GettingRemarried.com Legal Advisor

Post #2 of 5 (3020 views)

Re: [MistyDawn31] Annulments? [In reply to]

Go to your local parish priest and discuss your previous marriage. The Catholic church may, or may not, be recognizing your previous marriage and you may not have to get an annulment. However, if your diocese says you must have an annulment to remarry in the Catholic church then they must contact your ex-husband. He wouldn't have to agree to the annulment but they would have to contact him. You do not have to personally have any contatc with him though.
M. Giordano
Legal Advisor

MistyDawn31
New User

Post #3 of 5 (3017 views)

Re: [Legal] Annulments? [In reply to]

I have already talked to my priest and I do have to have an annulment. The problem with them contact in my ex-husband is that I don't even know how to get in touch with him now and I know that none of his family would tell me. So, where do I go from here? If he is unreachable will I still be able to get the annulment?

the_admin
Remarriage Forum Moderator / Moderator

Post #4 of 5 (3014 views)

Re: [MistyDawn31] Annulments? [In reply to]

I would let the diocese take care of locating him. But again, ask your priest how it works in your diocese and if he can't tell you then call your diocese and ask.
I Do - Take Two Moderator

Deacon Bob
INDEPENDANT CATHOLIC DEACON

Post #5 of 5 (2928 views)

Re: [MistyDawn31] Annulments? [In reply to]

Once the process starts you will be assigned an advocate. Discuss the situation with him. Because of abuse, esp if it can be documented, and if their is reason to be concerned for your safety if ex knows where you are they may make an exception. Best wishes and God Bless.
Deacon Bob Tousey
Independant catholic Deacon