While getting into a marriage, they may have expectations of lifetime companionship, but in some cases, the circumstances turn out to be different. The cases of divorce after short-term marriages are not rare in Florida and are associated with specific legal aspects.
No matter how long your marriage was or whether it was only a few months or just a few years, knowing how the Florida law holds short-term marriages can guide you through the divorce proceedings with vigor and clarity.
What Counts as a “Short-Term Marriage” in Florida?
A short-term marriage has a legal definition that considers that the marriage did not last over 7 years in Florida. This category is important, particularly in spousal support (alimony), asset distribution, and the other choices made as a result of a divorce.
There are three categories of marriage duration:
- Short-term: less than 7 years
- Moderate-term: 7 to 17 years
- Long-term: 17 years or more
So, if your marriage lasted under 7 years, courts will generally treat it as a short-term union when evaluating settlements.
How Property Division Works in Short Marriages
Florida is governed by the law of equitable marital property distribution. This does not necessarily imply that it is a fifty-fifty division, but a fair division according to the efforts made and needs of each spouse.
Courts in short marriages can usually be able to restore both parties to the same financial status they had before the marriage, particularly where there is little asset sharing or joint debt. For instance:
- Property acquired before the marriage typically remains non-marital.
- If the couple bought a home together or shared joint accounts, only those specific items would be divided.
The average time of marriage in the U.S. till divorce is statistically slightly more than 8 years. This implies that in Florida, there are a lot of cases of divorce that are classified as short-term.
Is Alimony Awarded After a Short Marriage?
Alimony is one of the most notable changes in divorces that occur in short-term marriages. Courts in Florida are less likely to issue any long-term or permanent alimony following short marriages unless any special conditions arise.
However, a court may consider awarding:
- Bridge-the-gap alimony: Short-term support (up to 2 years) to help a spouse transition to single life.
- Rehabilitative alimony: Financial support while a spouse gains education or job skills.
For example, if one spouse gave up a job to support the other during graduate school, even in a two-year marriage, the court might award temporary alimony based on that sacrifice.
In general, there is no minimum duration of marriage required for alimony, but shorter marriages face a higher threshold to justify such support.
Children and Parenting Plans
If the couple had children, parental responsibility and time-sharing remain a major focus in the divorce process, regardless of marriage length. Florida courts always prioritize the best interests of the child.
Couples must submit a parenting plan, and decisions about custody, visitation, and child support will follow standard legal procedures. In many cases, shorter marriages involve younger children, which can affect long-term co-parenting arrangements.
Do Prenups Matter More in Short Marriages?
Yes, a prenuptial or postnuptial agreement can play a pivotal role in a short-term divorce. Because fewer joint assets are accumulated in a brief time, the terms of a valid prenup often take precedence over court intervention. A well-crafted prenup can clarify property rights, debt obligations, and spousal support—even before the marriage begins.
In short marriages, there’s often less financial entanglement. A prenup provides a clear exit plan. It helps avoid drawn-out legal disputes. Courts typically honor valid agreements.
This can save time, money, and stress. It also protects personal assets. A prenup gives both spouses clarity. It sets fair expectations from the start.
Emotional and Financial Considerations
While a short marriage may be easier to dissolve legally, that doesn’t mean it’s emotionally simple. The end of any marriage, regardless of length, can cause grief, confusion, and financial strain.
For those emerging from a brief marriage:
- Prioritize self-care and counseling to rebuild emotional resilience.
- Review and revise financial plans, including credit accounts and insurance policies.
- Seek legal advice early to understand your rights and options.
Divorce is among the top five most stressful life events, regardless of marriage duration.
Final Thoughts
Divorcing after a short-term marriage in Florida may be legally less complex than divorcing after decades together, but it still comes with critical decisions that can shape your future. From understanding the definition of short-term marriage to knowing how property, alimony, and children are handled, the right legal guidance can help you move forward with clarity.
If you’re facing a divorce after a short marriage, the experienced team at Affordable Divorce Center is here to help. With low-cost services and compassionate guidance, they make the legal process simpler and more affordable for you.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Does the length of marriage affect divorce settlement in Florida?
Yes. In short marriages (under 7 years), courts may focus on restoring each party to their pre-marital status and are less likely to award long-term alimony or divide complex assets.
2. How to get over a divorce after a long marriage?
Healing takes time. Counseling, support groups, and creating new routines can help. Focus on rediscovering your identity, setting personal goals, and leaning on a strong social network.
3. What is considered short-term marriage in Florida?
A marriage lasting less than 7 years is considered short-term under Florida law. This classification affects alimony decisions and how assets are divided during divorce.
4. What is the 7 year marriage rule in Florida?
Florida law considers marriages 7 years or longer as moderate- or long-term. Once the marriage hits the 7-year mark, courts may be more open to awarding rehabilitative or permanent alimony.
5. How many years do you have to be married to get alimony in Florida?
There’s no set number of years, but alimony is more commonly awarded in moderate- or long-term marriages (7+ years). In short marriages, only limited alimony, like bridge-the-gap, may be granted.
