PRENUPTIAL AND POSTNUPTIAL AGREEMENTS ATTORNEYS IN WEST CHESTER, PA

Even though no couple gets engaged with the expectation that they will one day divorce, the only true guarantee in life is that there are no guarantees.  With so many couples marrying later in life after accumulating separate assets or after having had children from prior relationships, prenuptial and postnuptial agreements have become much more common.   

Prenuptial agreements are entered into before a marriage and cover such issues as how assets are to be divided, debts distributed, alimony/spousal support, etc. if a divorce occurs.  Postnuptial agreements often cover similar issues as prenuptial agreements, but they are executed after the marriage has taken place.  Postnuptial agreements are sometimes used because a couple didn’t have time to finalize a prenuptial agreement before the wedding; other times, they may be used because issues arise during the marriage that the couple would like to deal with in an agreement.   

In many ways, a prenuptial or postnuptial agreement can provide a couple with a way to protect themselves and each other in a loving way.  By discussing and agreeing on how certain issues would be handled in the event of a future divorce prior to the marriage (or prior to any serious problems in the marriage), the couple can make those determinations at a time when they love each other, want the best for each other and want to treat each other fairly. This is a far better option than trying to negotiate those issues years down the road, when the couple is at each other’s throats or in the middle of a nasty divorce.   

In this way, a prenuptial or postnuptial agreement can reduce uncertainty and provide peace of mind because during difficult times both partners will know that certain issues are “off the table,” having already been decided.  In the event of a divorce, there will be fewer issues to fight over, which will reduce the time and cost required to get through the divorce. 

At Peak Legal Group, we can help you understand the issues that are typically covered in these agreements what may be appropriate to consider in your individual circumstances. We can also assist you in preparing a valid and binding prenuptial or postnuptial agreement under Pennsylvania Law.