I would not make the mistake of confusing things being dealt with via canonical means, as suggesting it is legalistic. The Canons are how the Church has traditionally expressed its pastoral guidance to clergy and the faithful,  and they are infused with both Scripture and mercy. 

In a way, the Canons are a sort of accumulation of the pastoral wisdom of the Church. That does not mean they always remain relevant or appropriate in new circumstances, but it does requires a humility when dealing with them. As Pope Francis has said, theology is best done on ones knees, in prayer and humility.