Planning for Your Future: Prenuptial and Post-Nuptial Agreements – The Reape-Rickett Law Firm

Marriage is an exciting step in one›s life, and beyond committing to a shared lifetime of experiences, marriage can join individual assets, debts, future earnings, and liabilities. In addition to planning for their wedding celebration, couples should also plan for their future and how a prenuptial or post-nuptial agreement can help them navigate the road ahead. In the event a marriage ends in divorce or even death, a prenuptial or post-nuptial agreement can protect each spouse’s interests as well as save considerable time and resources.
Prenuptial and post-nuptial agreements are legal documents that help couples decide how to protect their individual assets before or during marriage and can address spousal support, future income, business interests, retirement, asset division, liabilities, as well as property inheritance. It is common misconception that such agreements only protect the higher earning spouse, but a well-crafted agreement can ensure that the spouse in a financially weaker position is protected. It is important to note that neither a prenuptial or post-nuptial agreement can address child custody, visitation, or support for a couple’s existing or future children.
Although both pre and post-nuptial agreements clarify ownership during a marriage, the biggest difference between prenuptial and post-nuptial agreements is when they are created and signed. Prenuptial agreements are signed before the parties are married (at least several days or weeks before the ceremony), and post-nuptial agreements are signed after marriage. Postnuptial agreements are entered into between spouses during a marriage for a variety of reasons including, to change the character of the property, clarify ownership of property, to amend or revoke a prenuptial agreement, or in the event one spouse suddenly comes into considerable wealth from an asset that had little value before the marriage. 
If you have questions about prenuptial or post-nuptial agreements and how they can protect you and your spouse, contact The Reape-Rickett Law Firm at (888) 846-6166 or visit DivorceDigest.com and speak with an experienced family law attorney. Our lawyers can help you navigate the process and protect your rights.