As a Long Island divorce attorney I see an increasing number of Long Island couples choosing to enter into prenuptial agreements before they get married to ensure their interests are protected in the event of divorce down the road. While this may seem negative or depressing to many, what those people do not consider, however, is that a prenuptial agreement can actually be beneficial to the marriage. Not only do prenuptial agreements protect soon-to-be spouses in the case that the marriage does not work out, but the process of entering into these agreements requires that couples take an honest and intelligent approach to the marriage rather than be simply carried away by emotion. This can actually set the stage for a healthier, and more long-lasting marriage in the long run.
Prenups Help Long Island Couples Take Marriage Seriously
The negotiation of a premarital agreement helps couples entering into marriage to talk about money and expectations, and to make decisions together. The prenup gives the soon-to-be spouses a chance to honestly evaluate their finances both separately and as a couple. It can potentially eliminate misunderstandings or misinformed beliefs about money and assets heading into the marriage, and can establish any special agreements that you might have with one another.
Prenuptial Agreements Help Long Island Couples Prepare for a Future Together
Of course it is true that most couples prefer to view marriage as a lifelong union based upon love and shared values. While this is certainly a reality and the foundation of most marriages, a marriage is also a partnership where two legal persons are combined into one. Married partners share assets, debts, rights and responsibilities. Viewing the marriage as a legal entity from the outset can help many couples to learn about one another and prepare them for a future together.
Prenuptial Agreements Help Strengthen Relationships
The fact is that prenuptial agreements encourage full and honest disclosure, which in turn supports a healthy marriage. Prenups require soon-to-be spouses to be candid with one another. Interestingly enough, problems that are difficult to discuss prior to marriage can grow over time. These seemingly small details can become even more difficult once they recur or grow years into a marriage. Every marriage has potential for conflict. Prenuptial agreements help couples to address this at the outset, which can indeed strengthen a relationship.
Prenups Are Not Only for the Wealthy
Many imagine that prenuptial agreements are for those who are extremely wealthy or have special circumstances that require additional protection. However, this is simply not the case. Any individual with modest assets or earning potential can benefit from a prenuptial agreement. Prenups can effectively address the protection of your separate property, as well as how property or debts will be allocated in the event of divorce in the future.
Another common criticism of prenuptial agreements is that the negotiation of the agreement anticipates divorce. Instead, consider the view that, while no newlyweds anticipate divorce, many marriages will indeed end this way. No one wishes for divorce. In some cases, divorce can be the most emotionally and financially devastating event of a lifetime. However, the prenuptial agreement can be a sort of insurance plan that covers a significant portion of the process, and can save time, money, and emotional stress in the future. In the event of divorce, both individuals are protected and afforded a smoother divorce process. This is being smart about the odds of divorce, and protecting yourself both emotionally, and financially, from the consequences of it.
#1 Cause of Divorce is Money. It’s Best to Address this Before Marriage
Financial realities can often put strain on a marriage, especially when matters were not previously discussed or addressed. In fact, one of the main causes of divorce is financial troubles. Prenuptial agreements emphasize the importance of honesty and disclosure; any issues that arise at the time the agreement is drafted can and should be explored in pre-marital counseling. Making the prenup might force you to confront many potentially problematic issues early on. Most concerns that arise can be resolved; however, some may raise early red flags. Of course, it’s much better to be aware of pitfalls prior to the marriage rather than after it has taken place.
Need Help with Your Prenuptial Agreement? Our Compassionate and Experienced Long Island Divorce Attorneys Can Help
Whether to have a prenuptial or postnuptial agreement is a personal and individual decision. The attorneys at the Divorce Law firm of Hornberger Verbitsky, P.C. can answer any questions you might have about whether a prenuptial or postnuptial agreement is right for you. Our compassionate Long Island divorce attorneys are experienced in all types of divorce and family law matters in Nassau County, Suffolk County, and the five boroughs of New York City. Contact our office today at 631-932-1910 to set up your free consultation.
For more information about Prenuptial and Postnuptial Agreements, please read Your Guide to Long Island Prenuptial & Postnuptial Agreements
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