If my husband has re-married but we are not divorced, should I get an annulment?
Question Details:
I have a question about how I should proceed between an annulment or divorce. I was married at 16 in 1979 but we have been living separate lives since 1984. I have lived in HI since 1988. I have since found out that he has been re-married for about 18 years but according to my records we are still married. Can I just go through the process of an annulment to end the marriage or do I have to go through a divorce? I have no intention of ever returning to him and would like to have my own life back. What do I do?
May I ask: does he know that you are still married? Is it possible that he proceeded with a divorce action and served you by publication or other method because he did not know where you are? If you are still married his "marriage" of 18 years is not valid and yes, you do indeed have to get divorced. You can get the marriage annulled in most states but obtaining an annulment is sometimes much more difficult. Either way you need him to be advised of all of this and you need to seek legal help as soon as possible. You can file in Hawaii as you meet the residency requirements I am sure after all this time. Good luck.
