The Austin Texas Decree Declaring Marriage Void refers to a legal procedure through which a marriage is declared null and void by a court of law in Austin, Texas. This decree is applicable in cases where there are specific grounds or circumstances that render the marriage invalid from the beginning. When a marriage is declared void, it is as if the marriage never legally existed, and both parties revert to their unmarried status. Some common grounds for issuing the Austin Texas Decree Declaring Marriage Void include: 1. Bigamy/Polygamy: If one or both spouses were already married at the time of the marriage, the subsequent marriage is considered void. This often occurs when one person intentionally conceals their existing marriage. 2. Consanguinity: If the spouses are closely related by blood, such as siblings or parent and child, the marriage is void. This prohibition is in place to prevent incestuous relationships. 3. Invalidity of consent: If one or both spouses lacked the capacity to give voluntary and informed consent at the time of marriage, the marriage may be declared void. Examples include situations involving mental incapacity, coercion, or fraud. 4. Underage marriage: If one or both spouses were underage (below the age of consent, which is typically 18 in Texas) and did not obtain proper parental or judicial consent, the marriage may be voided. It is important to note that there are different types of decrees that can be issued when declaring a marriage void: 1. Annulment: This is a common decree declaring the marriage null and void. It retroactively invalidates the marriage and recognizes it as if it never legally occurred. 2. Declaration of Invalidity: This decree declares the marriage invalid from the beginning, essentially voiding the marriage as if it never happened. In Austin, Texas, couples seeking to have their marriage declared void must file a petition with the court and provide supporting evidence for their claim. The court then reviews the case, hears arguments from both parties, and makes a determination based on existing laws and regulations related to marriage avoidance.