Pre-Nuptial Agreements

Millennials, who are statistically marrying later

They may have had more time to build up their assets and maximise their income before marriage and want to protect this in the event that they divorce.

People who have been divorced previously

People who have been through a divorce before are aware of the cost and uncertainty that this process can bring and are often keen to avoid this for any future marital breakdowns. They may want to protect their wealth for the benefit of their children from their previous marriage. They may also be paying their previous spouse maintenance and want to limit their new spouses claims so that they can continue to live a similar lifestyle after divorce.

People with significant business interests

Particularly those involved in family businesses where business interests could form part of the matrimonial ‘pot’, Pre-Nuptial Agreements can be used to protect these.

In order to have the best chance of having your agreement upheld it should be signed no less than 28 days before the wedding. We recommend consulting a lawyer at least three months ahead of your big day to ensure there is enough time for the agreement to be drafted and agreed.

No one goes into a marriage anticipating that it will end, but if divorce becomes a reality, most if not all couples want the ‘breakdown’ process to be as amicable as possible way with minimal uncertainty and worry over financial matters. Research has shown that the top causes for conflict in a marriage are money and communication. These conflicts are of course all the more heightened when a marriage breaks down. This is why it can be sensible to sit down with your future spouse and agree on important financial matters at the outset of your relationship, whilst you are able to communicate openly and effectively. Once things have broken down, you may find you are unable to have a sensible discussion because emotions and hurt are preventing this.

Pre-Nuptial Agreements are a way for the parties to have peace of mind in that they should not be facing any unexpected financial consequences on the breakdown of their marriage.

More and more people are now entering into these agreements, and it may surprise you to know that it is not just celebrities or heirs and heiresses of family fortunes who are looking to protect their wealth in this way.

At an initial meeting we will explain the law in relation to Pre-nuptial Agreements, and their advantages and disadvantages so you can make an informed decision about whether an agreement may be right for you and your future spouse.