The 3 reasons why every couple should have a prenuptial agreement

You and your fiancé are deeply in love, and ready to tie the knot. The last thing you want to think about is a divorce. After all, divorce is for other couples– couples who aren’t as in love as you and your partner. Isn’t it? 

The fact is that about fifty percent of marriages in the United States end in divorce. It may not seem very romantic to think about, but it is a good idea for you and your future spouse to sign a prenuptial agreement. A prenup is crucial for protecting your personal finances in the event of a divorce. In case you need even more convincing, here is a list of the seven best reasons why you and your partner should have a prenuptial agreement.

1. Keeping your property

If you do not have a prenuptial agreement, you may be required to give some of your property to your spouse—even if you owned it before entering the marriage. This can include money in your savings account, the heirlooms passed down from your grandma or your collection of baseball cards. Many prenuptial agreements include a clause specifying that these assets will remain with the original owner.

2. Keeping your future assets

Let’s say that you come into significant assets during your marriage. Perhaps your small business takes off, you receive an inheritance or you pick the winning lottery ticket. A prenuptial agreement can stipulate that this income belongs to you and not your partner if the marriage ends in divorce.

3. Protecting your children

If you are entering the marriage with children from a previous relationship, a prenuptial agreement can be vital in protecting their future finances. If the marriage dissolves and you do not have a prenuptial agreement, your children could lose a huge chunk of the assets that otherwise would have been theirs. By getting a prenup, you can help protect your children’s financial security well into the future.

How do I get a prenup?

As you can see, prenuptial agreements are a wise step for any couple. If you are curious about prenuptial agreements, you should contact a family law attorney. A skilled attorney who is familiar with New York law can help create the agreement that is best for both of you.