Tribunal

A tribunal is a court established in each diocese by the bishop to assist him in carrying out his responsibility as shepherd of the local Christian community which has been entrusted to him (cc.369, 1419 Code of Canon Law, 1983). As the judicial office of the bishop, the diocesan tribunal cooperates in his ministry of furthering the supreme law of the Church – the  salvation of souls (c.1752).

Although most cases brought before the tribunal involve questions of marital nullity, the court also acts as the competent forum for other issues.

Church law safeguards the indissolubility of the sacrament of marriage. By law, a marriage is presumed valid until established otherwise by positive proof (c.1060). A declaration of invalidity is rendered when the marriage is determined to be invalid. While the process is judicial, it is the commitment of the tribunal personnel to demonstrate a pastoral attitude and regard for those who submit cases for adjudication.

The Diocese of Stockton is a court of first instance for marriage cases within its territory, and a court of second instance for the Dioceses of San Jose, Las Vegas and Reno.