While prenuptial agreements were once considered safeguards for wealthy families, more and more couples are using these contracts to minimize conflict and protect their assets if they ever get divorced. Prenuptial agreements allow you to have honest conversations about how property should be divided before you get married and sidestep contentious family law disputes later on. If you’re planning a wedding, below are a few important points you should know about prenups.

A Brief Guide to Prenups

What Is a Prenuptial Agreement?

Prenuptial agreements are essentially private contracts that describe how you and your spouse will divide your belongings if the marriage doesn’t work out. Many couples use these to specify which belongings should be considered separate assets or ensure that both sides are compensated if one of you makes career sacrifices to raise a family.

How Does Divorce Work With a Prenuptial Agreement?

If you and your spouse decide to separate, you can simply submit your prenup to the court along with your divorce documents, detailing how the estate should be divided. If you and your spouse are able to peacefully negotiate a settlement regarding child custody, support, and other issues that can’t be decided in a prenuptial agreement, divorce can be much faster and easier on both of you.

What Happens if You Don’t Have a Prenup?

Without a prenuptial agreement, you’ll hopefully be able to decide between yourselves how the marital estate should be divided. If not, a family law judge will have to settle the matter for you, according to state statutes. When emotions are running high, disputes over property can be expensive and extremely contentious, so it’s usually better to resolve these questions far in advance.

With over 35 years of experience, the family law attorneys at Burglin & Doxey, PC have helped couples throughout Fairbanks, AK, negotiate and prepare prenuptial agreements that protect the interests of everyone. They pride themselves on giving every client the individual attention they deserve, with legal solutions tailored to your unique needs. Call (907) 456-4020 or visit their website to schedule a consultation with an accomplished family law attorney.

These articles are for discussion purposes only. If you need legal advice, contact a qualified legal professional.