Deciding Whether You Need a Prenuptial Agreement
Prenuptial agreements have a terrible reputation. They are seen by some as a cold and calculated strategy during a time of optimism and joy. In reality, a well-written prenuptial agreement can be one of the best wedding gifts two people can give to each other.
The primary concern of a prenuptial agreement is usually the assets that each person owns as they enter the marriage. A prenuptial agreement is a formal written contract that specifies how assets and debts will be divided in the event the marriage ends. A prenuptial agreement can be used to counteract the usual rules of marital property division in Massachusetts.
Prenuptial agreements are not only for the wealthy, or for people entering into their second or third marriage. Prenuptial agreements — sometimes called an antenuptial agreement or a cohabitation agreement — are also a good idea for small-business owners, people with children, people with special medical needs, and people whose children or parents may have special medical needs.
Graham & Harsip, P.C.: A Family Law Firm in Acton, Massachusetts
For more than 35 years, the attorneys at Graham & Harsip have provided high-quality and thoughtful legal advice and representation to our local community. Our lawyers take great professional pride in the fact that many of our clients have returned to us throughout the years — and we consider referrals from past clients to be one of the greatest compliments we can receive.
Our attorneys are available to answer questions about prenuptial agreements and to advise clients about how a premarital agreement can benefit their specific circumstances.
Post-Marital Agreements: What if you have married without signing a prenuptial agreement but want to make a formal agreement with your spouse about sharing income during the marriage and the division of property in the event of divorce? You may still be able to write and sign a post-marital agreement. A post-marital, also known as a post-nuptial agreement serves the same purpose as a premarital agreement. Currently, in Massachusetts the law is unsettled as to whether a post-marital agreement is enforceable. However, the Massachusetts Supreme Judicial Court has contemplated that post-marital agreement may be valid if they at the very least meet the same threshold requirements of antenuptial and separation agreements. Our attorneys can discuss with you whether a post-marital agreement, in light of the current law, is appropriate based on your specific situation.
Our attorneys are available to answer any questions you have about premarital or post-marital agreements. We offer new clients a complimentary 20-minute consultation, which is always confidential. To make an appointment, call 978-631-0146 or send us an e-mail.
