For short-term marriages, generally defined as those lasting less than 10 years, spousal support is typically limited in duration and often includes a fixed termination date. The court is guided by Family Code § 4320, which suggests that a reasonable period for spousal support in such cases is approximately half the length of the marriage. The primary purpose of spousal support in short-term marriages is to assist the economically disadvantaged spouse in transitioning to self-sufficiency. Courts are not required to maintain the supported spouse at the marital standard of living, especially if that standard was not created by the joint efforts of the spouses. Additionally, unless the court expressly retains jurisdiction, spousal support orders in short-term marriages terminate at the end of the specified period, and jurisdiction to modify or reinstate support is also terminated.

In contrast, for long-term marriages, defined as those lasting 10 years or more, the court retains jurisdiction over spousal support indefinitely unless there is a written agreement or court order terminating jurisdiction. This indefinite jurisdiction reflects the legislative policy that long-term marriages often justify ongoing support obligations. Courts are more likely to consider the marital standard of living and the supported spouse’s ability to meet their financial needs when determining the amount and duration of support. Even if support is ordered for a limited period, it may be reinstated upon a showing of changed circumstances, provided jurisdiction has not been terminated. (Family Code § 4336.)

In summary, the key differences lie in the duration of support and the retention of jurisdiction. Short-term marriages generally result in limited, transitional support with a fixed termination date, while long-term marriages often involve indefinite jurisdiction and a greater likelihood of ongoing support obligations.