Generally we advise against attempting to obtain an annulment on the grounds of a spouse’s imprisonment, as an annulment is much more difficult to get.  It is a much simpler process to obtain a “no fault” divorce (based on the grounds of “irreconcilable differences”) than it is to get an annulment. 

When pursuing a no fault divorce, all you have to do is have your attorney complete an marital dissolution agreement, sign it and have your spouse sign it.  You are not required to see your spouse – we can get the paperwork sent to them in their facility, and include envelopes for its return.  This option is best when you and your spouse agree on a divorce, child custody arrangements, and property division.  We recommend you seek a divorce lawyer that offers a flat fee service for this process.  If you and your incarcerated spouse are in disagreement over whether or not to get a divorce, how to handle child custody, or who gets what property, you also have the option of filing for a “fault” divorce, on the grounds of “conviction and imprisonment.”  In this case there will be more negotiation, more court visits, and it is likely that the court will order all parties into mediation to resolve any disagreements.  With this type of divorce, you will have to show proof of your spouse’s conviction and imprisonment.  At most divorce lawyer’s firms the fees for this kind of divorce will be on a retainer basis.

The thing to remember from all of this is that it is possible to get a divorce from a spouse in prison.  If they have been convicted of a felony and there is some disagreement involved in the divorce, you are able to seek a divorce based on the fact alone that they are in prison for a felony.  (Remember: they must still be in prison at the time of filing for divorce!)  As your attorney we are able to get paperwork to and from them, and even to keep your address out of all filed documents to keep you as safe as possible.