Annulment Attorney Franklin County NY | SRIS, P.C.
Franklin County Annulment Attorney — What Are the Grounds for Annulment in New York?
An annulment in New York legally declares a marriage void, as if it never existed, based on specific grounds defined in state law. If you are seeking an annulment in Franklin County, you need an experienced annulment attorney in Franklin County NY to guide you through the complex legal process. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
New York Annulment Law and Grounds
In New York, an annulment is governed by the Domestic Relations Law. Unlike a divorce, which ends a valid marriage, an annulment is a legal decree that a marriage was invalid from its start. The grounds for annulment are specific and must be proven in court.
Last verified: April 2026 | Franklin County Family Court | New York State Legislature
The primary statute is New York Domestic Relations Law § 140, which outlines the grounds for annulment. These include incest, bigamy, mental incapacity at the time of marriage, force or fraud, and physical incapacity. The case must be filed in the county where either party resides.
For official court forms and procedures, you can refer to the Franklin County Supreme & County Court website.
Procedural Steps for an Annulment in Franklin County
Filing for an annulment involves specific steps in Franklin County Family Court. The process begins with filing a verified petition that states the grounds for annulment. You must serve the other spouse with the petition and a summons. If the grounds are contested, the court will hold a hearing to take evidence.
- Consult with an Annulment Lawyer: Discuss your situation to determine if you have valid grounds under New York law.
- File the Petition: Your attorney will prepare and file the annulment petition with the Franklin County Clerk’s office.
- Serve Your Spouse: The petition and summons must be formally delivered to your spouse according to court rules.
- Court Proceedings: Attend any required conferences or hearings. If uncontested, the judge may grant the annulment based on the papers.
- Judgment of Annulment: If the court finds grounds are met, it will issue a judgment declaring the marriage null and void.
Potential Outcomes and Considerations
In Franklin County, an annulment can affect property rights, spousal support, and the legitimacy of children, with outcomes determined case-by-case.
Unlike divorce, there is no “equitable distribution” of marital property in an annulment. The court may make orders for temporary support, attorney’s fees, and the care of any children. The status of children from an annulled marriage is addressed under the law to protect their rights.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Our Experience with Annulment Cases
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997. Our firm has over 120 years of combined attorney experience. We approach each annulment case with a focus on the specific legal requirements and our client’s goals. Our founding attorney, Mr. Sris, has a background that provides an advantage in cases involving complex financial disclosures or fraud allegations.
Case Results and Client Focus
Our firm-wide record includes over 4,739 case results with a favorable outcome rate exceeding 93%. While results are always case-specific, our systematic approach to annulment cases involves a detailed review of the marriage circumstances and gathering necessary evidence to support the legal grounds.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Local Annulment Law Firm Serving Franklin County
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
50 Fountain Plaza, Suite 1400, Office No. 142
Buffalo, NY 14202
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (838)-292-0003 | Local: (716) 250-1555
By appointment only.
Our Buffalo location serves clients throughout Franklin County. We offer 24/7 phone consultations at (888) 437-7747. Meetings are held by appointment only. If you need an annulment law firm in Franklin County NY, contact us to discuss your case.
Frequently Asked Questions About Annulment in NY
What is the difference between divorce and annulment in New York?
A divorce ends a valid marriage. An annulment is a court declaration that a valid marriage never existed due to specific legal defects at the time of the wedding.
How long do I have to file for an annulment based on fraud?
It depends. New York law requires you to file within a reasonable time after discovering the fraud, and you must not have voluntarily continued the marriage after the discovery. An annulment attorney can assess the timeline for your specific case.
Can I get an annulment if my spouse refused to have children?
No, not typically. Physical incapacity (impotence) is a ground, but a simple refusal is not. An annulment lawyer can review if your facts align with the narrow grounds defined in the Domestic Relations Law.
What happens to our children if our marriage is annulled?
Children born during a marriage that is later annulled are still considered legitimate under New York law. The court will make orders for custody, visitation, and child support just as it would in a divorce action.
Do I need a lawyer to get an annulment in Franklin County?
Yes. The legal standards are strict and the process is complex. An experienced annulment attorney in Franklin County NY can ensure your petition is properly drafted and your evidence meets the required burden of proof.
For more information, you can read about our New York divorce lawyer services or return to our New York family law hub. We also assist clients in neighboring areas like St. Lawrence County.
Last verified: April 2026. Laws change. Contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.