Got Trouble? We can help.

What can I do to make the marriage valid?

That depends on why the marriage was invalid. If the marriage is considered "void", then it is invalid for any purpose. For example, if you married someone who was still married to someone else, the marriage is void and there is nothing you can do unless your spouse gets a divorce. At that time you can remarry. If the marriage is "voidable", then you may well be considered validly married unless you go to court to have the marriage "annulled". For example, if you got married under duress, the marriage is voidable, but it will remain valid until an annulment, which must be obtained during the lifetime of the parties.

Which marriages are "void"?

This will depend upon state law, but generally speaking marriages that offend some very basic policy will be considered void - for example, a marriage between a brother and sister. Marriages that are invalid but don't offend such a basic policy will be considered voidable - for example, a marriage that took place shortly before a person was old enough to marry under state law.

How do I get out of an invalid marriage?

You can go to court and get an "annulment" (sometimes called a "declaration of invalidity").