nullity

noun | \ ˈnə-lə-tē \ | nul·li·ty
  1. : the quality or state of being null

  1. : an act, proceeding, or contract void of legal effect — compare impediment

    — absolute nullity
    in the civil law of Louisiana : a contract or act considered void by virtue of a transgression of the public order, interest, law, or morals a bigamous marriage is an absolute nullity —Louisiana Civil Code also : the quality or state of such a nullity Note: A marriage that is an absolute nullity does not have to be annulled to terminate its legal effects (as property rights).

    — relative nullity
    in the civil law of Louisiana : a nullity that can be cured by confirmation because the object involved is considered valid; also : the quality or state of such a nullity Note: A contract that is a relative nullity may be annulled and the parties restored to their original positions. A marriage that is a relative nullity must be annulled to terminate the legal effects (as property rights) of the marriage.