Annulment

Ending a Marriage That Was Never Legally Valid

An annulment is different from a divorce.

In Nevada, an annulment is a court order declaring that a marriage was invalid from the beginning. Under the law, it means the marriage never legally existed.

At The Cooley Law Firm, we help clients determine whether their situation qualifies for annulment and guide them through the process with care, discretion, and clarity.

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What Is An Annulment?

An annulment may be available when a marriage was entered into under circumstances that made it legally invalid.

Common Grounds for Annulment Include:

  • Lack of Consent
    One party was underage or mentally incapable of consenting

  • Fraud or Misrepresentation
    Concealment of critical facts, such as:

    • Intent not to live as spouses

    • An existing marriage

    • Immigration fraud

    • Hidden children

  • Bigamy
    One spouse was already married at the time of the ceremony

  • Prohibited Family Relationship
    The spouses are closely related by blood (see NRS 122.020)

  • Void or Voidable Marriage
    The marriage was invalid due to legal or procedural defects

Where an Annulment Can Be Filed

You may file for annulment in Nevada if:

  • The marriage occurred in Nevada, or

  • At least one spouse currently lives in Nevada

Legal Effect of an Annulment

When an annulment is granted:

  • The marriage is treated as void from the start

  • Neither party has ongoing marital rights or obligations

  • Property may be divided equitably, similar to divorce, when appropriate

  • Either spouse may restore a former name

  • Children born during the relationship remain legally protected

Nevada law treats children of annulled marriages as legitimate, with full parental rights and responsibilities preserved.

How The Cooley Law Firm Can Help

Attorney Shelly Booth Cooley provides experienced and discreet representation in annulment cases.

We Assist With:

  • Determining whether annulment—or divorce—is appropriate

  • Drafting and filing the Complaint for Annulment

  • Handling cases involving fraud, coercion, or misrepresentation

  • Obtaining default annulments when the other party cannot be located

  • Coordinating name restoration, custody, and financial orders

Every case is handled with professionalism and sensitivity.

Why Legal Counsel Matters

Many annulment cases are denied because they:

  • Do not meet the specific legal grounds, or

  • Lack sufficient evidence

An experienced family law attorney ensures your case is properly supported and your rights—and reputation—are protected.

Why Choose The Cooley Law Firm

  • Extensive Family Law Experience
    Representation in annulment, divorce, custody, and related matters

  • Local Insight
    Familiarity with Clark County Family Court procedures and judges

  • Confidential and Efficient
    Sensitive cases handled with discretion

  • Client-Centered Approach
    Thoughtful, individualized guidance

Moving Forward with Clarity

If your marriage was entered into under invalid circumstances, you may be entitled to a fresh start.

The Cooley Law Firm will guide you through the annulment process and help you move forward with confidence and dignity.

Ready to Talk?

Contact The Cooley Law Firm to schedule a consultation with Shelly Booth Cooley, a Las Vegas family law attorney, Certified Family Law Specialist, and Fellow of the American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers and the International Academy of Family Lawyers.

We can help you determine whether annulment is right for you—and what comes next.