Juridical Antecedence and the Implications of Psychological Evaluation Prior Marriage

This study examined the implications of psychological evaluation prior to marriage settlement, with particular focus on juridical antecedence, in the Eastern Part of Pangasinan. The research aimed to assess how pre-marital psychological assessments could inform legal decisions and minimize the incidence of marriage nullity. Using a descriptive research design, data were collected from three Regional Trial Courts and 139 respondents, including judges and parties involved in annulment cases filed from 2023 to 2025. The study employed a structured questionnaire checklist, weighted means, frequency counts, percentages, and Pearson’s correlation to analyze relationships between juridical antecedence, psychological evaluation, and the grounds for filing a declaration of nullity. Findings revealed that judges were predominantly male, married, and Christian, with advanced legal education. Respondents indicated moderate agreement regarding the benefits of pre-marital psychological evaluation, particularly interviews with primary and secondary school teachers, while family member interviews received lower agreement. The study also found a significant positive relationship between juridical antecedence and the grounds for filing a declaration of nullity, highlighting the importance of understanding the personal and behavioral history of the parties involved. The results underscore the potential of systematic psychological evaluation in identifying underlying issues that could compromise marital stability and inform policy interventions. Based on the findings, a policy proposal was formulated to mandate psychological evaluation prior to marriage settlement. This study provides valuable insights for judges, policymakers, psychologists, and couples, emphasizing the role of pre-marital psychological assessment in promoting informed decision-making, protecting marital integrity, and reducing the prevalence of marriage nullity in the region.