Assumption: "A very short marriage means you are entitled to little or nothing from the assets."

Court Reality

A short marriage is a factor the court weighs, and it generally points away from equal division, but it does not mean you get nothing. Where there are children, where there has been domestic abuse, or where one party has needs that cannot be met another way, the court can still order a meaningful share — particularly to meet housing needs for a parent with children. 'Short marriage, no children, not much' is a common reaction, but it is not the law. Needs can override brevity.