How long does it take?
The case does not officially open until your case is assigned to a judge and your former spouse is notified. From that point it takes twelve to fourteen months for an average case.
How much does it cost?
An application fee of $50 is requested with the initial application. Depending on the type of case, the fee ranges from $500 to $900. You are asked to absorb and pay for as much of that cost as you are able. You will not be denied the process if you cannot pay.
What is an annulment support minister?
A person who has been trained by the Tribunal Office and Family Ministries Office to help a petitioner or respondent enter into the nullity investigation process. Once the testimony is submitted to the Tribunal they are no longer involved in the process.
How can a person get this done? It seems hard to do.
First, make an appointment to meet with a pastoral minister or annulment support minister at your local parish. Complete the initial application.
Second, make a file folder to keep all papers in. Make copies of everything you send to the Tribunal. Send the initial application in with a check for $50.
Next, when you receive the long questionnaire in the mail, contact your annulment support minister and make an appointment to meet. At that meeting, look over these papers and be sure you understand what to do in response. Read all the directions and follow them.
Develop a plan for how you will get this done. Set a time for completion. Memorial Day, Independence Day, Valentine's Day are suggestions. Make it your Advent or Lenten resolution. Some people do it before their birthday as a gift to themselves. Just stick to it!
When telling your story in response to the questions asked, try to establish specific examples and define patterns of behavior.
A rule of thumb for length is between nine and fifteen pages. Do not clip your story and thereby miss some vital part of the story.
As you reread it try to envision who might have known something of the incidents or behaviors to which you are speaking. Write their names in the margins. These may be good witnesses for you to ask for help in your case. If so, ask them if they are willing to respond to a written questionnaire and be a witness or verifier for you. Enter their name and information on the witness list.
Make copies of everything and send to the Tribunal.
The hardest part is now done. |
