Here’s what you need to know.

By Helen Handley, Solicitor – Exeter, Devon

If you’re coming out of a marriage that lasted only a few years, you may be feeling anxious about what will happen to your home, your savings, or your pension. Many people worry that even after a short marriage, everything will be split down the middle. The reality is more nuanced—and often more reassuring.

Short Marriages: The Law Is Different

In English law, the duration of your marriage is a key factor in how finances are divided. For marriages under five years (and especially under four), the courts do not automatically apply a 50/50 split. Instead, the focus is on fairness, needs, and contributions.

Key Points to Understand

1. Pre-Marital Assets Are Usually Protected

If you owned property, savings, or a business before the marriage, these are less likely to be shared equally. The court’s aim is often to return both parties to their pre-marital financial positions, as far as possible.

2. Direct Contributions Matter

If your spouse invested money or effort into your property or finances during the marriage, the court may recognise this with a lump sum or a share of the increased value—but this is not the same as giving away half of everything.

3. Needs Are Still Important

The court will always ensure that both parties’ reasonable needs are met, especially for housing. If your ex needs to buy somewhere to live, this will be considered—but the provision is likely to be limited to what is reasonable, not generous.

4. Pensions and Inheritance

Pensions built up before the marriage are rarely shared in short marriages, unless there is a clear need and no other resources. Similarly, inheritances and gifts are usually kept by the person who received them.

5. Clean Breaks Are Common

Short marriages often end with a “clean break”—meaning no ongoing spousal maintenance. Both parties are expected to move on independently.

A Realistic Example

Suppose you brought your home into the marriage, and your spouse contributed some money to renovations. In a short marriage, you are likely to keep your home, but your spouse may receive a lump sum reflecting their contribution—not half the house. If your spouse owned their own property or pension before the marriage, they are likely to keep those too.

Why Early Advice Matters

Every case is unique, but the law is clear: short marriages are treated differently. If you’re worried about what you might lose—or what you might be entitled to—getting early, specialist advice can make all the difference.

Get in Touch

If you’re facing divorce after a short marriage and want clear, practical advice tailored to your situation, please get in touch. I’m here to help you understand your rights and secure your future.

Helen Handley is a Solicitor based in Exeter, specialising in family law and financial settlements on divorce. To arrange a confidential consultation, please contact Helen directly via LinkedIn or at Wollens Solicitors.

You can also complete an online enquiry form. One of the Wollens team will contact you as soon as they are available.