If a couple has been married for many years but one becomes infirm, for example caught virus and brain possibly dead would the other person be able to get a divorce and be able to marry again. This is an important questions for me so would appreciate answer soon Thank you

-- Ewan Cameron (ecam@cyberbeach.net), October 02, 2002

Answers

Ewan, the vows say something like "in sickness and in health, 'til death do us part."

-- Christina (introibo2000@yahoo.com), October 02, 2002.

Yes I agree but what is the legal position ? would the church authorize something like this. His wife will probably never recover.

-- Ewan Cameron (ecam@cyberbeach.net), October 03, 2002.

Ewan,

A decree of nullity is not issued based on what happens after a marriage. It is a statement that a valid marriage did not occur. This could be due to one person not being free to marry (previously married and not annulled, etc.), immaturity on one of the participants, etc.

So the fact that this guy's wife is in a coma and/or brain dead would not be a reason for issuing a decree of nullity.

-- Glenn (glenn@nospam.com), October 03, 2002.

How about out of the church , divorce, would this be possible? I dont think it would be allowed but witht the relaxed laws maybe it is possible.?

-- Ewan Cameron (ecam@cyberbeach.net), October 03, 2002.

Since one of the vows made in marriage is "in sickness and in health", and since a virus and possible brain death would fall under the heading of "sickness", why would this hypothetical spouse WANT to seek a divorce?

Certainly he/she could do so under civil laws, for any or no reason. But the Catholic Church has somewhat higher standards. :-)

-- Christine L. (chris_tine_lehman@hotmail.com), October 03, 2002.

thank you for your help it is a worrying and sad situation for all concerned

-- Ewan Cameron (ecam@cyberbeach.net), October 03, 2002.