When a couple is nearing marriage, it is one of the most exciting times in their lives. In all of the excitement, it is important that you consider the legal ramifications of the marriage that you are about to enter into. 50-percent of marriages, unfortunately, end in divorce. Although as you enter a marriage, the last thing you want to think about is the possibility of divorce, it is important to take precautions. One way you can protect yourself as you merge your life with your new spouse’s is to draft a prenuptial agreement.
The thing to remember when drafting a prenuptial agreement is that it must be fair to both parties and that it must be signed by both parties before the marriage begins. It might be an awkward conversation to bring up to your partner but it is an important one that everyone should have, regardless of whether you actually choose to draft an agreement.
Some of the things that can be included in a prenuptial agreement are matters of property and finances. Creating a prenuptial agreement makes it easy to determine which property is separate and that you had prior to the marriage. After being married for several years, it can be hard to remember everything that you owned before the marriage began because so much of your life is commingled with your spouse’s.
If you failed to make a prenuptial agreement before you were married, you have the option of creating a postnuptial agreement which is basically the same thing but happens after you have gotten married. However, you’ll have to convince your spouse it is a good idea, so that is an added challenge.
If you need legal assistance drafting a prenuptial agreement, contact our firm today.
If you require strong and dedicated representation for any of your legal matters, contact The Law Offices of George J. Mardinly to schedule a consultation.