Newly engaged couples often radiate true love and unflinching devotion. Although many marriages last a lifetime, the fact remains that nearly half of all marriages end in divorce.
According to the National Survey of Family Growth, 48 percent of married couples separate before they reach their 20th anniversary – and 20 percent of marriages end before they reach five years. If you are planning a wedding, it is important that you take a moment to look past the flowers, venue and cake to learn the legal implications of tying the knot. In most situations, it is advisable that couples draft a prenuptial agreement.
It’s not easy to talk about getting a prenup with your soon-to-be spouse, but the truth is that these contracts can actually strengthen a marriage. They ensure that both parties are entering the union for the right reasons. A prenup will also give you and your partner peace of mind, knowing that your finances are protected in the event of divorce.
If you have questions about prenuptial agreements or other family law matters, contact Behrens Law Firm, LLC. Barbara Behrens is a divorce attorney in St. Louis who will evaluate your situation and provide legal guidance.
Call 314-499-6999 to schedule a consultation. You can also learn more about divorce laws in Missouri by visiting USAttorneys.com.
9 Essential Details to Include in Your Prenuptial Agreement
If you intend to draft a prenuptial agreement – which is probably a smart decision – it is important that you enlist the help of an experienced divorce attorney. A small mistake could render certain parts of your prenup, or the entire contract, unenforceable.
In addition to helping you avoid technical mistakes, your family lawyer will explain what should and should not go in your prenup. Although every prenuptial agreement is unique, it is likely that your attorney will include details about these nine factors:
- Your businesses – both joint and separate;
- Your retirement benefits;
- Your full income including deductions and tax claims;
- How much you spend on household bills and expenses;
- Your joint bank accounts;
- Your investments including stocks and property;
- Your debt including credit cards and student loans;
- Your savings contributions; and
- Life insurance.
When Might the Terms of a Prenuptial Agreement Be Unenforceable?
In order for a prenup to be enforceable, both you and your fiancé must fully understand what you are signing, and you both must be acting in good faith. Also, the contract must be reasonable and fair, and both parties must fully disclose all relevant facts.
Your prenup may not be enforceable if you or your fiancé did not disclose all of your holdings and assets. It also may not be enforceable if one party was coerced or manipulated into signing the agreement.
If you would like to draft a prenuptial agreement, or if you would like to find out if the terms of your prenup could be challenged, contact Behrens Law Firm, LLC. Barbara Behrens is a family lawyer in St. Louis with more than 30 years of legal experience, and she will give your case the individual attention that it deserves. Call 314-499-6999 today to schedule a consultation
