Unlike a divorce, which states that a marriage that once existed no longer does so, an annulment is a declaration by the Church that no valid sacramental marriage existed, because there was no true Sacrament of Marriage as the Church teaches it from the beginning. If any of these requirements is lacking from the beginning of the marriage, then the Tribunal, acting as the bishop's representative, can declare that marriage invalid. The fact that a marriage is accepted for consideration by the Tribunal is no guarantee that an annulment will be granted. Grounds for annulment and positive proof must both be established. Church declarations of nullity have no civil effects.
Children born of the marriage maintain their legitimate status.
The bishop is the chief Teacher and Shepherd for those in his diocese. At times, it is necessary for the bishop to decide whether the teaching and sanctifying mission of the Church is being carried out in accordance with the Gospel message. In doing so, he acts as the chief judge concerning the practice of the Christian faith. Since the bishop cannot act personally as judge in all these matters, he delegates certain individuals as members of the Tribunal, or Church court, to act in his name. Most problems presented to the Tribunal for judgment deal with the validity of the sacrament of Marriage.