Between choosing a venue and creating a gift registry, many engaged couples overlook the decision of whether or not to sign a prenuptial agreement. This common family law document outlines a set of mutually agreed-upon terms on how property and other assets will be divided if the marriage ends in divorce or death. Before you exchange vows, here’s why you should meet with an attorney and organize a prenup.

Why Create a Prenuptial Agreement?

1. Demonstrate Intent

Many couples avoid discussion of prenuptial agreements because they fear that it signals distrust in the other party or suggests that the marriage is for anything but love. In reality, signing this document can actually prove the opposite. By arranging specific terms ahead of a divorce, each partner can demonstrate that they aren’t getting married to acquire money or property.

2. Secure Financial Future

While assets are shared during a marriage, they will be divided according to the state’s terms of equitable distribution—decisions that may not always seem fair—if you don’t have other arrangements.  A prenuptial agreement, however, outlines how assets will be distributed to protect both parties financially. For example, it can prevent one spouse from inheriting their partner’s debt, protect investments acquired before marriage, or provide alimony terms.

3. Save Money

It can take a long time to settle all aspects of a divorce—especially when it comes to the division of assets and alimony decisions. The longer the process, the higher the legal fees can get.

Since prenups cover most of these decisions, arranging one ahead of time can save you from spending many days—and many dollars—on divorce.

4. Plan Fairly

When marriages turn sour, a spouse who wants to divorce can plan their strategy ahead of their partner. This approach, however, leaves one party without time to plan properly and voice their concerns. By contrast, both parties review prenuptial agreements in full so that each has enough time to reach a solution they believe to be fair.

5. Prevent Stress

Between coping with the end of a marriage and navigating the many challenges of family law, divorce is usually a stressful process. While you may not be able to avoid this stress altogether, you can minimize it by creating a prenuptial agreement.

The experienced divorce attorneys at O'Connor, Mikita & Davidson LLC will guide you through every step of the prenuptial agreement process. Always putting the client first, these professionals will advise you on how to protect your rights and ensure you understand every term before signing. Beyond prenups, this team can also assist with all aspects of family law, such as those involving child custody, child support, and alimony. Visit this firm online to learn more about these services, and call (513) 793-5297 to schedule a free initial consultation.