Want A Prenup But Afraid To Bring It Up? 3 Tips For Discussing A Prenuptial Agreement With Your Significant Other
Most people are probably familiar with prenuptial agreements in the context of high-profile celebrity divorces and television dramas and movies. The scenario that we see time and time again in the media involves one wealthy partner to a relationship trying to get the other (usually less wealthy) partner to agree to a prenuptial agreement before the two get married, causing distrust and skepticism between the couple. Similarly, the other fact pattern we often witness is in celebrity divorces, when prenuptial agreements become both fodder for the frontpage news and a source of strategizing when, where, and how to get a divorce. However, the truth is that prenuptial agreements aren’t just for the 1%, and they do not have to come with the drama that we see on screen. Indeed, there are many reasons that the average person might want to enter into a prenuptial agreement before they get married. Perhaps the most common reasons for a prenuptial agreement are simply for both sides to have clarity and also to have protection of their own assets.
While prenuptial agreements are simply just agreements that provide clarity and protection to the parties that enter into them, they are still a difficult and uncomfortable subject for most people. A person who wishes to enter into a prenuptial agreement may find it difficult to discuss a prenup with their spouse-to-be. To help alleviate this problem, and foster good communication around prenuptial agreements, here are 3 tips to help bring up and discuss a prenuptial agreement with a romantic partner:
#1. Don’t Wait Until the Last Minute to Discuss Your Prenup
Nobody likes to be ambushed, especially about signing a legal document. The same principle applies to prenuptial agreements. It is best to discuss prenuptial agreements far in advance of getting married, and to make sure that both sides have ample time to identify what they have and what they want to agree upon, and negotiate the terms of the prenuptial agreement.
#2. Lead with the Benefits of Entering into a Prenuptial Agreement
Most people do not have a positive perception about prenuptial agreements. However, prenuptial agreements can benefit both spouses. A prenuptial agreement allows both spouses to agree on certain things up-front, like obligations from a previous marriage, debts, and assets. In the event that a couple divorces, a prenuptial agreement can save time and money by shortcutting much of the controversy and uncertainty of the divorce process. Leading with why prenuptials are actually a positive thing is a good way to bring up the subject with a future spouse.
#3. Be Honest
It goes without saying that “honesty is the best policy”. Being honest and open with your spouse-to-be about why you want a prenuptial agreement and what it would look like. Let your significant other know that this is important to you.
Help with a Prenuptial Agreement in Chicago
If you are interested in entering into a prenuptial agreement in Chicago, it is best to chat with an experienced Chicago prenuptial agreement lawyer. The experienced Chicago prenuptial agreement lawyers at Birnbaum Gelfman Sharma & Arnoux, LLC offer a confidential consultation to discuss your rights and options, and to see if they can help. Contact Birnbaum Gelfman Sharma & Arnoux, LLC today and speak with a lawyer about your prenuptial agreement.
