Choosing a path

Annulment vs. divorce

Both end a relationship in the eyes of the law — but they say very different things. Divorce ends a valid marriage. Annulment declares the marriage was never valid. Here’s how to tell which one fits your situation.

Side by side

The key differences.

 
Annulment
Divorce
What it says
The marriage was never valid — as if it never happened.
A valid marriage is ended going forward.
What you must show
A specific ground — void (bigamy, close relatives) or voidable (intoxication, fraud, no consent, duress).
Nothing about fault — Nevada divorce is no-fault and available to anyone who qualifies.
Residency
None if you married in Nevada; otherwise 6 weeks.
At least one spouse a Nevada resident for 6 weeks before filing.
Where it’s filed
Family Division of the District Court (Clark County for Las Vegas).
Same Family Court.
Property & children
A court can still address property, debts, and any children’s issues.
The court divides property and resolves custody and support.
Best when
A clear ground exists and you act reasonably promptly.
No annulment ground fits, or the marriage was simply a mistake of the heart.
An open door to soft, hopeful light — choosing a path forward.
Which one is for you?

It comes down to the facts.

If something about your marriage fits a recognized ground — you couldn’t truly consent, you were defrauded, one of you was already married — annulment may be the cleaner, more accurate path.

If it was simply a marriage that didn’t work out, annulment usually isn’t available, and Nevada’s straightforward no-fault divorce is the way forward. Many people start out asking about annulment and find that a quick, uncontested divorce actually fits better — and that’s a perfectly good outcome.

  • A ground that fits → annulment may be possible
  • No qualifying ground → divorce is the alternative
  • An attorney can tell you which in one short conversation

This site provides general information about Nevada annulment law and is NOT legal advice. Using it does not create an attorney–client relationship. For advice about your situation, consult a licensed Nevada family-law attorney.

Still weighing it?

One call clears it up.

A free, confidential consultation with a Nevada family-law attorney will tell you whether annulment or divorce is the right move for your situation.

Free Consultation → See the process