Tribunal Office
318-868-4441
bvice@dioshpt.org
The Tribunal Office serves as the judicial arm of the Diocese of Shreveport, working under the direction of the Bishop to uphold the laws and teachings of the Church with compassion, justice, and pastoral sensitivity. Our mission is to assist the faithful in understanding and resolving matters governed by Canon Law, especially those involving the validity of marriage.
The Tribunal carefully and prayerfully examines each case, always seeking the truth and promoting healing for those whose lives have been impacted by separation or divorce. While much of our work involves marriage nullity (annulment) cases, the Tribunal also provides guidance on other canonical matters, including sacramental records, dispensations, and permissions. Our goal is to offer clarity and peace of heart to those seeking to live fully within the sacramental life of the Church. The staff of the Tribunal is committed to treating every individual with dignity and respect, recognizing that each situation is deeply personal and deserves confidential, compassionate attention.
If you have questions about the annulment process or any other canonical issue, we invite you to contact the Tribunal Office. We are here to serve you and to help you take the next steps toward reconciliation, healing, and deeper communion with the Church.
Forms & Policies
What is an Annulment?
An annulment, or Declaration of Nullity, is an official decision by the Catholic Church stating that what appeared to be a valid marriage was not, in fact, a sacramental union. After careful investigation by the Tribunal, a marriage may be declared null if it is shown that an essential element for a binding sacrament was missing from the beginning. This process does not assign blame or question the sincerity of either party—it simply determines whether a true sacramental bond was ever formed.
While a civil divorce ends the legal bond between spouses, an annulment recognizes that a valid sacramental marriage never took place according to Church teaching. This process exists to bring healing, clarity, and reconciliation to those seeking full participation in the life of the Church.
A Church annulment has no civil effects. It does not affect property, custody, or other legal matters, and children from the union remain fully legitimate in the eyes of the Church. All civil issues must be finalized before a case can begin. The Tribunal maintains strict confidentiality—only the petitioner, respondent, and Tribunal staff have access to case materials, and witness statements are protected.
The Anullment Process
- Complete Required Forms
Begin by filling out and submitting the Petition for Declaration of Nullity of Marriage – Basic Data Form and the Assessment of Previous Marital Consent, both available on this website. - Gather and Submit Documentation
- Provide a certified copy of your marriage license from the Clerk of Court where the marriage took place.
- Submit Final Divorce Decrees for all previous marriages.
- Include current baptismal certificates with notations from your Church of Baptism.
- Request two handwritten character references from individuals (not related to you) who know you well. These letters should affirm your honesty and credibility and be mailed directly to the Tribunal Office with your full name included.
- Case Opening and Notification
Once all materials are received, your case will officially open. The Tribunal will then notify your former spouse (the Respondent) by mail and invite them to participate. Church law ensures both parties have an equal opportunity to share their perspective. The process will continue even if the Respondent chooses not to take part. - Personal Interview
After your file is reviewed, you’ll be invited to meet with Tribunal officials to share your personal account of the marriage. If your former spouse wishes to meet as well, a separate appointment will be scheduled. - Judicial Review and Decision
When all testimony and evidence have been gathered, the Judge will review the case and render a decision. You will receive the final Decree of Effectiveness by mail.
Please Note:
No priest or deacon may discuss or schedule future marriage plans until a Decree of Effectiveness has been issued.
Mediation, Conciliation, and Arbitration
Respect for the dignity and rights of every person is a fundamental value of the Catholic Church. The Church protects these rights in many ways—through education, moral development, and the guidance of law. Within the Diocese of Shreveport, the Ministry of Canonical Services provides a path for individuals to seek fair and just resolution when disputes or misunderstandings arise.
Who May Request Mediation?
Any person—Catholic or not—who believes their rights have been violated or who has experienced a grievance involving a member or representative of the Catholic Church may seek assistance through the Ministry of Canonical Services.
Mediation may address:
Actions or decisions by a diocesan or parish administrator that are believed to have violated a right recognized by Church law or magisterial teaching. Failures to act or decide in situations where inaction itself has resulted in a violation of rights as understood by the Church.
Conciliation
Chancellor for Canonical Affairs
(318)-868-4441
3500 Fairfield Ave
Shreveport, LA 71104
