Property Settlement After A Long Marriage vs A Short Marriage In Perth

One of the most stressful aspects of separation and divorce is the financial and property issues. Marriages in Perth that had lasted several years and those that had a short period can have different ways in the division of property depending on the circumstances. This area of law in Western Australia combines both federal and state regulations, as noted in the Family Law Act 1975 (Cth) and the Family Court Act 1997 (WA).

This blog gives the essence of the differences between long marriages and short marriages in terms of property settlement and why using the best property settlement lawyers is essential.

What Is Property Settlement?

A property settlement refers to the legal division of assets, liabilities, financial resources, and superannuation after a couple ends their relationship, whether by divorce or separation. This includes the family home, investments, vehicles, debts, businesses, and super funds. It applies to both married couples and those in de facto relationships.

In Western Australia, parties typically aim to resolve a settlement by agreement. If an agreement cannot be reached, the matter may proceed to the Family Court of Western Australia.

The Role Of Contributions and Future Needs

In the division of property, the courts consider a broad array of factors. They examine:

• Money (including income, savings or investments that come into the relationship).
• Non-financial contributions (rearing children and helping the spouse develop his career).
• The needs of both parties in the future (age, health, earning capacity and child care).

All these factors should be considered irrespective of whether the marriage was long or short. However, the balance of these may vary depending on the time of the relationship.

Long Marriage Property Settlement

In legal terms, a “long marriage” is not defined by a specific number of years but generally refers to many years together, often more than a decade. There is no rule that a long marriage results in an equal division, but the courts often view contributions differently over time.

• Shared life and joint contributions tend to be balanced more evenly. If both spouses contributed financially and non-financially over many years, the court may find a more equal distribution fairer.
• Assets acquired early in the relationship are often treated as jointly owned, even if in one party’s name. For example, a house bought before marriage may, over 15–20 years of joint use and contribution, be treated as shared.
• Settlements focus on overall fairness. The longer you have built a life together, the more likely the group of assets is seen as a true partnership, regardless of who earned or bought what.

Because of this complexity, getting advice from family lawyers Perth WA who understand how long-term contributions and future needs influence outcomes is especially valuable.

Short Marriage Property Settlement

A “short marriage” typically refers to relationships of a relatively brief duration, often considered less than five years in many family law discussions. In these cases, how property is treated may be different:

• Courts tend to look more closely at the actual contributions each party made, particularly financial ones. When one partner contributed substantial assets in the relationship, and a minimal joint contribution was made, he or she might have a greater share.
• Non-financial contributions (such as taking care of the house or children) are also taken into account. However, since the time spent was minimal, this may be insignificant compared to long marriages.
• Sometimes, short relationships with separate finances and limited joint assets result in outcomes where each party retains property they brought in, subject to fairness.

For these distinctions, it is essential to consult experienced top family lawyers Perth who can assess your unique situation and manage expectations.

Time Limits and Deadlines

Timing is one of the most important aspects of property settlement in Perth and around Australia. Failure to meet any deadlines associated with property settlement means that you lose your right to seek a property settlement. This is further reason of why it is critical to retain a property settlement lawyer at the beginning of the process. You should be able to take action quickly and avoid limiting your legal options by waiting too long.

The Importance Of Expert Legal Guidance

Cases involving property settlement can be complicated and emotional. Attempting to operate in a legal system with no assistance is likely to result in unfair consequences. This is the area the family law solicitors Perth enter.

A good property settlement lawyer will:

• Assist in determining and recognising assets and liabilities.
• Provide recommendations on the division strategies that are in accordance to the law.
• Help to negotiate, mediate or court processes.
• Keep your interests safe and take you through each step.

Seek out attorneys who have extensive experience, good communication skills and a track record of successful cases. The right team of Perth family lawyers can provide the support and advocacy you need.

Final Thoughts

There are no cases that are the same. A long marriage may result in more balanced treatment of the asset division, whereas a short marriage focuses on personal contributions. Taking early and informed action with a property settlement lawyers Perth ensures your rights and interests are protected.

Do not wait for deadlines to pass, seek expert legal advice and take control of your future.