Define: Canonical Impediment

A canonical impediment is a legal obstacle that prevents a person from being able to validly enter into a marriage according to the laws of the Catholic Church.

Examples of canonical impediments include a prior existing marriage, a lack of proper consent, or a close blood relationship between the parties.

A canonical impediment can be resolved through a process known as a declaration of nullity, in which the Church determines that the impediment was present at the time of the marriage and therefore the marriage is invalid.

In some cases, a canonical impediment can be dispensed with by the Church, allowing the marriage to proceed despite the impediment.

If a marriage is entered into despite the presence of a canonical impediment, it may be considered invalid by the Church and may be subject to annulment proceedings.

To determine if a canonical impediment applies to your situation, it is best to consult with a knowledgeable priest or canon lawyer who can provide guidance based on the specific circumstances.

While a canonical impediment may affect the validity of a marriage in the eyes of the Catholic Church, it does not necessarily impact the legal validity of the marriage under civil law.

A canonical impediment is not grounds for divorce, as divorce is a civil legal process that is separate from the Church’s determination of the validity of a marriage.

In some cases, a person who knowingly enters into a marriage despite the presence of a canonical impediment may be subject to ecclesiastical penalties, including excommunication.

If you suspect that a canonical impediment may apply to your marriage, it is important to seek guidance from a priest or canon lawyer to understand your options and the potential implications for your marriage.