No one thinks that their marriage will end in divorce, but the sad fact is that nearly 50% of marriages today do not last. A prenuptial agreement doesn’t mean that you expect the marriage to end. Many couples who sign a prenuptial agreement stay together until the end.
Think of a premarital agreement as insurance against the unexpected.
However, you must understand that things can happen to change your marriage. Don’t be unprepared! Think of it as insurance against the unexpected.
While many people believe that only the wealthy can benefit from prenuptial agreements, that is simply not the case. People from all walks of life and at all stages of life should think about the benefits of entering into a premarital agreement. Here are just a few examples of why you would want to think about getting a prenuptial agreement.
Who Should Get a Prenuptial Agreement?
Almost anyone can benefit from a prenuptial agreement. People with the following life statuses should strongly consider entering into a prenuptial agreement:
- You own a home
- You are a single parent
- You own your own business
- You are a grandparent
- You are a business professional
Even if you are just starting out in life, you should consider entering into a prenuptial agreement to protect your future assets.
Steps to Take Before Signing a Prenuptial Agreement
Your future spouse may present you with a prenuptial agreement prior to your wedding. If this has happened to you, make sure you follow these steps before you consider signing the agreement.
- Read the contents of the prenuptial agreement, regardless of who prepares it. Never sign anything without reading and understanding it. Be prepared to ask questions. Do not hesitate to ask for clarification if even the smallest point concerns you.
- Consult with an attorney who specializes in family law, specifically prenuptial agreements. They will help you determine if the prenuptial agreement has your best interests in mind. Make sure that the attorney you consult with is not the one who drafted the agreement. This way you will know that they have your best interests in mind, not your future spouse’s.
- Think it over. Even with expert advice, the decision to sign the prenuptial agreement is ultimately yours and yours alone. Take this decision seriously. Do not act on a whim or out of fear that your wedding will be postponed or cancelled. Signing a prenuptial agreement can have long lasting and serious ramifications. This is not something to take lightly.