The Tribunal is the canonical court of the Diocese of Madison. It is a forum in which controversies can be resolved through judicial trials conducted by the Tribunal's ministers in accordance with canon law and in a manner that respects the rights and dignity of all parties. In practice it primarily handles cases of marriage nullity (often called "annulments"). These cases are brought by people who believe that their marriages, though presumed valid by law, are actually invalid, and who wish to prove it by bringing forth evidence that demonstrates the nullity of the marriage beyond a reasonable doubt. The Tribunal can issue decisions on a wide range of other matters, such as canonical crimes or disputes about canonical rights. Since the tribunal's staff is trained in canon law, they also assist more broadly with canonical affairs within the diocese and can address canonical questions brought to them by priests, parish staff, or other members of the faithful.