Tribunal
From the Judicial Vicar:
The breakdown of a marriage is often one of the most painful experiences a person can endure. The end of a marriage affects not only the spouses themselves, but also children, family members, and friends. Even after a civil divorce is finalized, many questions, wounds, and concerns may remain.
The Catholic Church seeks to accompany those who have experienced divorce with compassion, pastoral care, and hope. One of the ministries available to divorced persons is the marriage nullity process conducted by the Tribunal.
A declaration of nullity (commonly called an “annulment”) is not a Catholic divorce, nor does it erase a relationship that existed or the obligations that arose from it. Rather, the Tribunal examines the circumstances that existed at the time of the wedding in order to determine whether a valid marital bond was brought into being according to the law of the Church.
Through a careful judicial process, the Tribunal gathers testimony and other evidence in order to determine whether the nullity of the marriage can be proven. Every marriage is presumed valid unless the contrary is established. For this reason, the outcome of a case can never be presumed in advance.
Many people find that participation in the process provides an opportunity for reflection, understanding, and healing. Regardless of the outcome, the Tribunal seeks to serve the truth about the marriage while respecting the dignity and rights of both parties.
If the Tribunal determines that the nullity of the marriage has been proven, a declaration of nullity is issued. Subject to any conditions that may be imposed and after all appeal rights have been exhausted, the parties are then free to marry in the Catholic Church.
If you believe that you may have grounds to petition for a declaration of nullity, I invite you to complete and submit a Petition. The form may be downloaded here, or you may request it from our office by telephone, email, or by filling out the comment box below.
I also encourage you to visit the webpage of the Office of Marriage and Family Life, which offers resources and support for individuals and families experiencing separation, divorce, and related challenges.
Please be assured of our prayers as you seek healing, peace, and clarity during this time.
May God bless you,
Very Rev. Alan M. Guanella, J.C.L.
Judicial Vicar
What is the Tribunal?
The Tribunal is the canonical court of the Diocese of La Crosse. It is a forum in which controversies can be resolved through judicial trials conducted by the Tribunal’s ministers in accordance with canon law and in a manner that respects the rights and dignity of all parties. In practice it primarily handles cases of marriage nullity (often called “annulments”). These cases are brought by people who believe that their marriages, though presumed valid by law, are actually invalid, and who wish to prove it by bringing forth evidence that demonstrates the nullity of the marriage beyond a reasonable doubt. The Tribunal can issue decisions on a wide range of other matters, such as canonical crimes or disputes about canonical rights. Since the tribunal’s staff is trained in canon law, they also assist more broadly with canonical affairs within the diocese and can address canonical questions brought to them by priests, parish staff, or other members of the faithful.
Petition for a Declaration of Nullity
Petition for a Declaration of Nullity – PDF Fillable Form
Printing tip: Do not “fit to page” or “scale to fit page” when printing. Print one-sided.
Application for the Shorter Form of Annulment
Contact Information
Tribunal of First Instance
Phone: 608.791.2684
Judicial Vicar:
Very Rev. Alan M. Guanella, J.C.L.
Promoter of Justice:
Rev. Msgr. Joseph G. Diermeier, J.C.L.
Defenders of the Bond:
Mr. Daniel Shakal, J.C.L.
Ms. Jenna M. Cooper, J.C.L.
Diocesan Judges:
Very Rev. Alan M. Guanella, J.C.L.
Rev. Msgr. Robert P. Hundt, J.C.L.
Assessors:
Rev. Derek J. Sakowski, S.T.D.
Mrs. Victoria Kaczmarek, J.C.L.
Auditor:
Sr. Donna Krzmarzick, ISSM
Administrative Assistant/Notary:
Ms. Kelly McCarthy