So…you’re getting married. You just want to plan the event –the location, the music, the first dance, the food, your “look” & where drunk & disorderly Uncle Stan is going to sit. Why get in the way of all that excitement to talk about drab topics like money, divorce & death?
The thing is our finances are complicated with ex-spouses, children, homes, businesses, debts & investments–not to mention that collection of mint condition Pokemon cards that you keep adding to.
Here’s what you need to know when the prenup Grinch shows up at the engagement party:
This is an opportunity to use the collaborative process or mediation:
- Engage in the candid discussion & make choices together–you’re not adversaries
- Rehearse problem-solving about financial & legal issues with your future life partner
Clarify expectations for the future:
- Opt-out of the legal model entirely or partially
- Organize finances during the marriage
Face fears about money before you tie the knot:
- Full disclosure of assets & debts–no hiding
- You might not like what you discover–better to know now
Speak to a lawyer before signing the agreement:
- Clarify legal rights on death & separation with or without an agreement
- Understand what you are getting/giving up in the agreement
- Finally, it’s not just a simple agreement! It’s your future–so pay attention & take ownership.
A marriage contract helps you lay out a plan for the future. Think of it as your “what if we separate?” or “what if one of us dies?” road map.
Let us help you prepare for a life together rather than a rude awakening at the end of a relationship. Understand how the law applies to your situation. Accept it or co-create your own vision of your legal & financial future.
Don’t leave these important decisions up to chance. We will tell you how to use the collaborative process to design a marriage contract where you both have input while receiving advice & education.
Call us so we can sort out the details & you can get back to the important tasks of sifting through cake samples & honeymoon destinations.