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Congratulations, you’ve decided to get married! Do you need a prenup? Many clients wonder if they need a prenuptial agreement to protect themselves before they get married. As always, the answer is that it depends on your individual circumstances.
When should you get a prenup?
Here are some situations where a prenuptial agreement just makes sense:
- When you have children from a previous marriage:Depending on your assets and income, you’re probably going to want to make sure that your children from a previous marriage are provided for. A prenup—and a good estate plan—can make sure that your children are provided for after you die, without your children having to go through your new spouse.
- When you want to ensure certain assets are yours:Some assets, like ancestral homes, heirlooms and personal belongings should be accounted for before your marriage. While you can provide instructions for these assets in your will, it’s always easier to create an agreement ahead of time.
- To provide for your spouse:Every marriage is different, but many spouses want to ensure that they’re going to be provided for, even if things go south. Making a support agreement can help protect them—or you—provide for general expenses. This is particularly important if you or your spouse have a significantly lower income.
- To quicken the divorce process:No one enters marriage hoping to get divorced—but since about 50 percent of marriages end in divorce, a prenup can smooth the road if you do decide to part ways. People in second or later marriages may decide to protect themselves in this manner.
Thinking about a prenuptial agreement? Call the experienced family law attorneys at Appelhof, Pfeifer & Hart, P.A. in St. Paul, MN to learn more about your options.
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