Office of Canonical Services

The Office of Canonical Services provides for or facilitates the following pastoral needs:

The Tribunal

The Tribunal is the canonical court of the Diocese of Spokane. It is a forum in which matters can be resolved through judicial trials conducted by the Tribunal's ministers in accordance with canon law and in a manner that respects the rights and dignity of all parties. In practice, it primarily handles marriage nullity cases (often called "annulments"). These cases are brought by people who believe that their marriages, though presumed valid by law, are actually invalid, and who seek to establish that nullity by presenting evidence to the Tribunal that demonstrates the nullity of the marriage beyond a reasonable doubt. A declaration of nullity is a determination that a marriage was not validly established according to the requirements of canon law; it is not a Catholic form of divorce.

The Tribunal also handles a wide range of other matters, including canonical crimes and disputes concerning canonical rights. Since the tribunal's staff is trained in canon law, they also provide broader assistance with matters of canon law within the Diocese and can address canonical questions brought to them by priests, parish staff, or other members of the faithful.

The forms provided here are for those seeking the assistance of the Tribunal in marital causes. Individuals may complete and submit these forms on their own, but the Tribunal strongly encourages them to contact their local Catholic parish for assistance in completing and submitting them. Parish clergy or staff can help explain the process, assist with the forms, and help ensure that the necessary materials are properly submitted to the Tribunal. Email the Tribunal

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Marriage Nullity Forms:

• Petition for Declaration of Nullity

• Request for a Nihil Obstat for Lack of Form

Explanations and Examples

• Appendix A: Explanations of the Grounds of Nullity

• Appendix B: The Marriage Nullity Process

• Appendix C: Legal Advice and Advocates

• Sample Petition: Partial Simulation Against Fidelity

• Sample Petition: Grave Defect of Discretion of Judgment

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Diocesan Policies

The Judicial Vicar/Chancellor provides guidance for the interpretation and application of canon law and diocesan policies. Although our diocesan policies are currently under revision, feel free to contact the Chancellor with any specific questions or clarifications you may need in the meantime.

For questions about the Safe Environment program, for the protection of children and youth, see the Office for Child & Youth Protection.

Diocesan Archives

The Archive of the Diocese is maintained under the supervision of the Chancellor.  To ask a question, or make an inquiry, please contact the Chancellor.

Additional Forms and Guidelines:

Affidavit of Freedom to Marry (revised 4/2019)
Affidavit of Freedom to Marry (Spanish) 2/2021)
Petition for Marriage Permission or Dispensation
Pre-Nuptial Investigation Form
Baptismal Register I
Baptismal Register II
Testimonial Letter Request Form