Assumption: "We lived together for three years before we got married. That time doesn't count — the marriage only started on the wedding day."
1 min readThis content reflects observational insights and lived community experiences. It does not constitute legal advice — always consult a qualified professional for your specific circumstances.
What People Expect
The length of a marriage for financial remedy purposes is calculated from the date of the wedding. Time spent cohabiting before marriage is irrelevant to the financial outcome.
Court Reality
It is commonly observed that courts have discretion to view pre-marital cohabitation as part of the effective relationship duration. Years together before marriage could often be included in the overall time considered.
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The Gap?
"We lived together for three years before we got married. That time doesn't count — the marriage only started on the wedding day."
Court Reality
It is commonly observed that courts have discretion to view pre-marital cohabitation as part of the effective relationship duration. Years together before marriage could often be included in the overall time considered.
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