What does validity refer to in canon law?

• A. Whether an act truly takes effect according to the law
• B. Whether an act is morally good
• C. Whether an act is performed according to custom
• D. Whether a law is still in force

Answer: (A)

Validity in canon law is about the act actually having binding force and taking effect under the law. It means the act is issued by the proper authority, in the proper form, and is duly promulgated so its effects occur as the law intends. If any required element—such as jurisdiction, form, or promulgation—is defective, the act does not take effect and is invalid, even if it is morally good or performed in line with custom. This concept is distinct from whether an act is morally good, whether it follows custom, or whether a law is still in force, which relate to morality, habit, or duration, not to whether the act is legally operative.