A legal dissolution of marriage in Texas can take different forms, each with distinct requirements and consequences. One process terminates a valid marriage, acknowledging its existence but ending its legal effect. Another treats the marriage as if it never existed, declaring it void from the beginning. Understanding the fundamental differences between these options is crucial for individuals contemplating ending their marital relationship.
The choice between these legal pathways can have significant implications for property division, spousal support, and future legal rights. The historical context of each procedure reflects evolving societal views on marriage and the grounds for its termination. While one option addresses situations where a valid marriage has broken down, the other is reserved for circumstances where the marital union was fundamentally flawed from its inception.