The Tribunal Marriage Annulments
A Ministry of Healing
An annulment of a marriage is a decision by a church court, that a putative marriage was not valid from the start because something was lacking: full knowledge and consent by both parties, freedom from force or grave fear, or some other factor needed for a valid marriage.
The Tribunal assists divorced people who petition for an investigation of their prior marriage(s). Today the Diocesan Bishop receives requests to examine the validity of marriage according to the Code of Canon Law. The Tribunal appointed by the Bishop accepts petitions for nullity, gathers testimony, and renders decisions according to the universal law and procedures of the Catholic Church. Either the marriage will be upheld as valid and binding, or it will be determined that no sacramental marriage bond existed due to certain conditions which render the marriage null. Regardless of the final decision, the tribunal investigation process is an opportunity for participants to experience healing and reconciliation with God and the faith community.
Jesus Christ taught a higher standard for marriage than the Law of Moses which allowed a man to divorce his wife. Jesus taught that from the beginning marriage was from God and the bond of marriage could not be broken (Mk. 10:2-12; Mt. 19:2-12; Lk 16:18; 1 Cor. 7:10). Since the time of the Apostles questions about marriage have been brought to the leaders of the Church like St. Paul (cf. 1 Cor. 7:12-16). The work of the Tribunal is a ministry of healing for those who seek God’s justice and mercy.
If you are interested in further information on the annulment process, please contact your parish or call the tribunal office directly at (302) 295-0630. After some initial clarifying questions, an advocate will contact you to assist you in preparing your petition, to present it to the court, and to offer you guidance and canonical assistance throughout the proceedings.
Mailing Address
P.O. Box 2030, Wilmington, DE 19899-2030
Street Address
1925 Delaware Ave., Wilmington, DE 19806
Phone: (302) 573-3107
Fax: (302) 573-6947
Email: tribunal@cdow.org
Judicial Vicar: Very Rev. Joseph W. McQuaide, IV
Mailing Address: PO Box 2030, Wilmington, DE 19899
Office Address: 925 Delaware Ave., Wilmington, DE 19806
Judges
Reverend James B. Herring, O. Praem., JCD
Reverend Michael C. Connolly, OSFS, J.C.L.
Defenders of the Bond
Sr. Patricia Smith, OSF, J.C.D.
Diocesan Marriage Advocates Listed by Deanery
Advocates are appointed by the Bishop to help petitioners in the diocese to present to the tribunal petitions for marriage nullity.