term:

Nullity

nullity n

pl: -ties
1 : the quality or state of being null
2 : 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).

rel·a·tive 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.

Source: Merriam-Webster's Dictionary of Law ©1996. Merriam-Webster, Incorporated. Published under license with Merriam-Webster, Incorporated.