Today’s society considers prenups and postnups taboo. Many believe obtaining a prenuptial or postnuptial agreement can somehow diminish a couple’s love or invite the prospect of divorce. However, these are Burch Shepard Family Law Group assumptions. Research shows that spouses who take the time to consider matters included in these agreements are better prepared to handle the obstacles that come up in a marriage. By actually thinking of the potential issues and creating mutually agreed solutions, marriages benefit from pre- and postnuptial agreements.
What Are Prenuptial & Postnuptial Agreements?
Prenups are agreements created before a couple marries, listing how they plan to handle finances, property, children, lifestyle, and more. Similarly, postnups are agreements created after two individuals are married.
Matters Covered in Prenups & Postnups:
- Property – Whether a couple lives in a community property or an equitable distribution state, it is important to determine how property will be handled in the case of a divorce.
- Finances – Before and throughout a marriage, assets, pensions, and other finances accumulate. It’s important to decide how you will divide these if the marriage ends.
- Support – If a couple has children, who will care for them? How will custody be divided and who how alimony be set up?
- Insurance – Life, healthcare, disability, and other insurances are discussed during a prenuptial or postnuptial agreement.
- Lifestyle – Will both spouses work during a marriage? Will one stay at home to raise the kids? What predominant religious will you adhere to? These are all things to consider.
These matters all focus on who gives what, and for how long. It forces couples to consider what will happen in the case of divorce. Contrary to popular belief, prenuptial agreements are not just a way to be selfish or something reserved for the rich and famous. Rather, they are a solid foundation on which to start or continue a marriage because it forces a couple to consider issues they might otherwise ignore.
If you are interested in obtaining a prenuptial or postnuptial agreement for your marriage, contact the skilled Newport Beach family law attorneys at Burch Shepard Family Law Group. We work closely with you to ensure your rights are protected. Call today for a consultation.
