Certified Advocates
Below is the list of the certified advocates for causes for Declaration of Nullity in the Archdiocese of Denver. Although, the Pastor, or other priest in your parish, by virtue of a mandate of the Archbishop can always serve as an advocate and provide pastoral guidance throughout the process, those listed below, have attended Canon Law classes and Continuing Education Courses offered every year since 2015 and are mandated by the Tribunal to serve as Advocate for the Archdiocese of Denver. To pursue a cause for Declaration of Nullity, you will need an advocate. It is always best to work with someone at your parish who can develop a relationship with you and accompany you in this journey.
The Role of the Advocate
The Advocate is a person appointed by a party to defend his or her point of view before the court. Thus, both Petitioner and Respondent may have an advocate. Ordinarily, if both parties agree on the petition, it is sufficient that there be only one advocate to represent both. Each party before the court, whether as Petitioner or Respondent, has a right to an advocate. Normally the advocate will argue for the position of the “client.” However, in ecclesiastical procedure, the advocate is an officer of the court and his or her obligation is the service of truth. Thus, the direction given by Pius XII to defenders is applicable also to advocates, that is, they are not obliged, nor should they advance spurious arguments in favor of their client’s position but, rather, strive to ensure that the court arrives at the truth.