When you envisioned what getting married was going to be like, a prenup was probably not involved in that daydream. This is with good reason as there is nothing all that romantic about a document that neatly divides what is yours and your partner’s right down the middle. After all, isn’t marriage supposed to be sharing everything with one another? Additionally, it is usually assumed that these types of legal agreements are reserved for the super wealthy. So, it can seem unnecessary for someone who has barely anything in their bank account.
Now, these are all excellent concerns and ones that certainly should be addressed before going any further. If you have recently become engaged and are wondering about whether a prenup is right for you, this is a good place to start. Here is the lowdown about this notorious agreement:
It’s Not All About Divorce
Yes, let’s address the elephant in the room. When most people think of these types of legal documents, the first thing to spring to mind is the dreaded D word. As the divorce rate is quite high, it is easy to see why wanting a prenuptial agreement may seem like a lack of faith in the marriage. However, it is important to see a prenup more as preparation rather than anticipation. A prenup is not an indicator that you will eventually break things off with your spouse. It will, nonetheless, allow for a much easier separation process should this occur.
A Prenup Doesn’t Imply Selfishness
A prenup can often seem the equivalent of selfishly holding onto your own wealth and possessions, ensuring that your spouse does not get anything. This, too, is something that is changing due to modern culture. More and more individuals, particularly millennials are finding themselves in greater debt. A prenup actually offers up a way to make sure that one person’s liabilities do not affect both of you as a couple. It is a good thing to consider if either one of you is saddled with a larger number of debts or have numerous loans to pay off.
Don’t Forget to Hash It Out First
Broaching the topic of a prenup is typically handled by one individual in the relationship and this is never easy. It certainly brings up uncomfortable feelings in both parties. If you have managed to move on however and come to an agreement, there is another step you must take first. This is figuring out all of the nitty-gritty details beforehand. The last thing you want is for surprising information to surface in a lawyer’s office. For that reason, it is a good idea to sit down and have an honest conversation with one another. Work out your financial and other issues in the privacy of your own home and then get a third party involved.
The Law is Dependent on Your Location
Depending on where you live, you will be subjected to different laws and regulations. As such, it is important to hire a lawyer from the same area that both you and your fiancée are residing in. Lawyers from Canterbury Law Group will help to make sure that you adhere to these decrees. It is a good idea to have certain requirements explained to you, nonetheless, as the document is being drafted. This will give you a better idea of what it is precisely each of you are agreeing to. It will also eliminate the chance of being surprised later on.
There is no getting around the fact that this is a sticky topic. While you may appreciate its importance, it can still be difficult to actually succumb to agreeing to it. However, by choosing this route, you really will be making things easier for both you as well as your future spouse.
