Rule 6.5 Petition for nullity on ground of insanity, etc

Where a petition for nullity [^f1 of marriage] has been presented on the ground that at the time of the marriage the respondent was suffering from mental disorder within the meaning of the Mental Health (Northern Ireland) Order 1986 of such a kind or to such an extent as to be unfitted for marriage, then, whether or not the respondent gives notice of intention to defend, the petitioner shall not proceed with the cause without the leave of the Master.

^f2 Where a petition for nullity of civil partnership has been presented on the ground that at the time of the formation of the civil partnership the respondent was suffering from mental disorder within the meaning of the Mental Health (Northern Ireland) Order 1986^f3 of such a kind or to such an extent as to be unfitted for civil partnership, then, whether or not the respondent gives notice of intention to defend, the petitioner shall not proceed with the cause without the leave of the Master.]

The Master may make it a condition of granting leave that some proper person be appointed to act as guardian ad litem of the respondent.