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Canonical Impediment: A term used in the Catholic Church to refer to a legal obstacle that prevents a person from getting married. This could be due to factors such as a previous marriage that was not annulled, a close blood relationship, or a vow of celibacy. A canonical impediment can only be lifted by the proper Church authority.
A canonical impediment is a legal obstacle that prevents a person from entering into a valid marriage according to the laws of the Catholic Church. This can include factors such as a previous marriage that was not annulled, a close blood relationship, or a vow of celibacy.
For example, if a person was previously married and did not receive an annulment, they would be considered to have a canonical impediment to marrying someone else in the Catholic Church. Similarly, if two people were closely related, such as siblings or first cousins, they would also have a canonical impediment to marriage.
Canon lawyers, who are experts in canon law, are often consulted to determine if a canonical impediment exists in a particular case. They can help individuals navigate the complex rules and regulations of the Catholic Church to ensure that their marriage is valid.