Lexington Annulment Lawyer — Is Your Marriage Void or Voidable?
An annulment legally declares a marriage void, as if it never existed, under specific grounds in Virginia law. In Lexington, an annulment lawyer from Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. can help you file a marriage annulment petition if your union is void or voidable under Va. Code § 20-89.1.
Virginia Annulment Law and Statute
Virginia law provides two paths for ending a marriage: divorce and annulment. An annulment is a court order stating the marriage was never legally valid from the start. The grounds are strict and defined by statute.
Last verified: April 2026 | Lexington Circuit Court | Virginia General Assembly
The primary statute governing annulments is Va. Code § 20-89.1. This law outlines specific circumstances that render a marriage either “void” (invalid automatically) or “voidable” (invalid if challenged by a party). Understanding this distinction is critical, as it affects who can file a petition and the applicable deadlines. A void marriage lawyer in Lexington can analyze your situation against these statutory grounds.
Official Legal Resources
For the full text of the law, review Va. Code § 20-89.1 (official Virginia General Assembly). All petitions are filed with the Lexington Circuit Court.
Grounds for Annulment in Lexington
Virginia recognizes specific grounds for an annulment, which differ significantly from divorce reasons like separation.
Void Marriages (No Time Limit to Challenge): These marriages are invalid from the outset. A void marriage lawyer in Lexington can file a petition at any time. Grounds include:
- Bigamy (one party was already legally married).
- Incest (marriage between close relatives as defined by law).
- Marriage where a party lacked the mental capacity to consent.
Voidable Marriages (Must Challenge Within Time Limits): These marriages are valid until annulled by a court. You must file a marriage annulment petition within the statute of limitations. Grounds include:
- Underage marriage without proper consent.
- Marriage induced by force, duress, or fraud.
- Physical incapacity at the time of marriage (and continuing).
- One party was of unsound mind at the time of marriage.
Annulment vs. Divorce in Lexington
In Lexington, an annulment erases the legal existence of a marriage, while a divorce ends a valid marriage. The choice impacts property division, spousal support, and even how your marital status is recorded.
Why Choose Our Lexington Annulment Lawyers
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to complex family law matters. Mr. Sris personally played a role in amending Virginia’s equitable distribution statute (Va. Code § 20-107.3), demonstrating deep involvement in the evolution of state family law. Our approach is direct and focused on your specific legal objectives.
Samantha Rae Powers, Associate Attorney at Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Licensed in VA, FL. Experienced family law and civil litigator. View Samantha Rae Powers’s Profile
Case Results and Approach
While every case is unique, our firm-wide record includes over 4,739 documented case results with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate across Virginia, Maryland, New Jersey, New York, and DC. In Lexington and surrounding areas, we apply a meticulous, evidence-based strategy to annulment cases.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our team, including secondary attorney Mr. Sris—a former prosecutor with a background in accounting and information systems—carefully investigates the facts surrounding your marriage to build the strongest possible petition for the court.
Annulment Lawyer Near Lexington, Virginia
Our Richmond location serves clients with matters at the Lexington Circuit Court. We represent individuals in Lexington and surrounding communities.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
7400 Beaufont Springs Dr, Suite 300, Rm 395
Richmond, VA 23225
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (804)201-9009
By appointment only.
24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Lexington Annulment Lawyer FAQ
What is the difference between an annulment and a divorce in Virginia?
An annulment declares the marriage legally invalid from the start, while a divorce dissolves a valid marriage. Annulment grounds are specific, like bigamy or fraud, and are governed by Va. Code § 20-89.1.
How long do I have to file for an annulment in Virginia?
It depends on the grounds. For void marriages (e.g., bigamy), there is no time limit. For voidable marriages (e.g., fraud, force), you typically must file within a specific period, such as two years from discovering the fraud or from when the force ceased.
Can I get an annulment if my spouse lied to me?
Yes, fraud can be a ground for a voidable marriage annulment. However, the lie must go to the essence of the marriage contract (e.g., intent to have children, identity, or religious beliefs). You must file a marriage annulment petition within the statutory time limit.
What happens to property and children after an annulment?
Virginia courts can still decide child custody and support based on the child’s best interests, as paternity is separate from marriage validity. Property division is treated differently than in divorce; the court may use equitable principles to divide assets acquired during the void/voidable relationship.
Do I need a lawyer to file an annulment petition in Lexington?
While not legally required, an experienced annulment lawyer in Lexington is highly recommended. The process involves complex pleadings, strict evidence standards, and handling court procedures at the Lexington Circuit Court to properly present your case.
Related Legal Services in Lexington
If you are considering other family law options, our firm also assists with divorce, child custody, and child support matters in Lexington. For a full view of our Virginia family law practice, visit our Virginia Family Lawyer hub page. We also serve clients in nearby jurisdictions like Henrico County and Chesterfield County.
Last verified: April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.