Short marriages can be emotionally challenging, and many people assume the divorce process will be quick and simple. While the duration of your marriage can influence aspects of your financial settlement, the legal process generally follows the same steps regardless of how long you were married. Understanding what to expect, your rights, and how to prepare can make the process less stressful and help you achieve a fair outcome.
Why choose George Ide LLP
At George Ide, we understand that even short marriages can involve sensitive financial and legal issues. Our family law team combines years of experience with a practical approach, clear communication, and a focus on cost-effective solutions. We work closely with you to protect your interests, explain your rights in plain English, and guide you through each stage so that you feel supported and confident in every decision.
The 12-month waiting period
Under English and Welsh law, couples must wait 12 months from the date of their marriage or civil partnership before divorce proceedings can begin. During this waiting period, you can use the time productively by:
- Gathering financial information and documents.
- Reviewing shared assets and debts.
- Seeking legal advice early.
- Preparing paperwork and organising finances for a smoother process once the divorce can proceed.
How marriage length affects a financial settlement
While every divorce requires careful negotiation, the length of the marriage can influence how the court approaches a financial settlement. Whilst the starting point remains unchanged in law, there are several factors which might be taken into account:
- Shorter marriages usually involve fewer shared assets.
- Pre-marital property is more likely to remain with its original owner.
- A clean break order, allowing both parties to move on without ongoing financial ties, is often more achievable.
We will guide you through every step, clarify your rights in practical terms, and support you in achieving a fair and realistic financial settlement, including helping you understand when a clean break order may be possible and how it could simplify your situation.
No-fault divorce: what it means for short marriages
Since 2022, the introduction of no-fault divorce means you no longer have to prove wrongdoing by either party. You simply inform the court that the marriage has broken down.
This is particularly relevant for short marriages because it:
- Allows couples to begin the divorce process without assigning blame.
- Reduces potential conflict and makes financial settlement negotiations smoother.
- Lets you focus on practical matters, like arranging finances and property, rather than proving fault.
Contact us to understand how this applies to your short marriage and begin preparing your settlement with confidence.
TESTIMONIALS
“I can enthusiastically recommend Alice Leadbeatter/George Ide. I was extremely grateful for the clarity of her communications and for demystifying many of the processes. Alice was prompt in her replies and very professional – both of which were appreciated in navigating a difficult time.”
Meet Our Family Law Team
The family law team at George Ide LLP has extensive experience in providing practical, trustworthy advice with a focus on strong communication, cost-effectiveness, and integrity.
If you would like to speak to a divorce solicitor about a short marriage or any issue arising from a relationship breakdown, please call our office in Chichester, or email us directly info@georgeide.co.uk. You can also view the family law team profiles for direct-dial phone numbers below.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
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What counts as a short marriage for divorce purposes?
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Can I get divorced if we've only been married a few months?
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Does a short marriage mean I keep what I came in with?
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How long does a short marriage divorce take?
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Do I need a solicitor for a short marriage divorce?
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Are pre-marital assets protected in a short marriage?
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What's the difference between divorce and annulment?
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Do I still need a financial settlement if there are no children and few assets?
Contact Our Friendly Legal Experts Today
For general enquiries or to discuss more specific needs in personal or commercial law please get in touch with a friendly member of our team today.
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