Prenuptial and Postnuptial Agreements

Prenuptial agreements, or “prenups,” often come with a cloud of misconceptions. Many people think they’re only for the rich and famous or assume that discussing a prenup casts doubt on a marriage before it even begins. But prenups are practical tools that help couples of all financial backgrounds protect their assets, define financial expectations and ensure a smoother process if circumstances change. Prenups can cover what would happen in the event of a separation, divorce or dissolution of the marriage, but they also can address inheritance rights in the event of the death of a spouse. This could be an important issue to address, particularly if there are children from a prior marriage, if a family-owned business is part of the balance sheet or if a significant ancestral inheritance could be impacted.

One common myth is that prenups take a long time to finalize, but with the right legal guidance, they can often be completed in a matter of weeks. Timing is crucial, though—it's recommended to start the conversation early, ideally a few months before the wedding, to ensure both parties have the time to thoughtfully consider their agreement. Far from being a sign of mistrust, a prenuptial agreement fosters open communication about finances, providing peace of mind for both partners as they start their life together. Whether you're protecting personal assets, family businesses or simply looking to avoid future misunderstandings, a prenup can be a smart step in securing your future.