A legal dissolution of a marriage signifies the end of a valid union, acknowledging that the marriage existed. It addresses issues like asset division, child custody, and spousal support arising from the marital relationship. For instance, a couple accumulating joint property during their marriage undergoes a division of these assets during this process.
Conversely, a declaration of invalidity treats the marriage as if it never legally existed. It asserts that the union was void from its inception due to certain pre-existing conditions. Historically, these declarations carried significant social and religious weight, particularly regarding legitimacy of offspring and inheritance rights. This remains an important consideration for individuals and families when planning their future.