While no one enters a marriage with the intention of ending it, marriages do sometimes fall apart. It is helpful to be realistic and practical so that you can plan for the future in case your marriage does not work out. Entering into a marital agreement, either before or during your marriage, could help your marriage be more successful. A marital agreement may eliminate any future uncertainties, and an experienced family attorney could help prepare this important document.
If you are considering a prenuptial or postnuptial agreement, a compassionate Albuquerque marital agreements lawyer who cares about helping and supporting people in this community could help you evaluate your legal options.
A prenuptial agreement is a legally binding contract that a couple enters into and signs before marriage. Both parties must disclose all their assets and liabilities, reaching an agreement on what each person would get in the event of a divorce. Prenuptial agreements can cover houses, vehicles, and monetary arrangements.
Postnuptial agreements are less common and occur during a marriage. They typically cover the same topics as prenuptial agreements. Neither prenuptial nor postnuptial agreements can address the issues of child custody or support.
For a marital agreement to be legally binding, it is critical to work with an Albuquerque attorney who is well-versed in the local laws.
Because each party discloses all of their holdings and debts, the couple can marry without any financial secrets that could later cause problems. Having a prenuptial agreement in place saves both parties time and money, which allows them to divorce with less emotional trauma.
While prenuptial agreements can benefit any couple, people commonly consider entering into them under the following circumstances:
A skilled local attorney could work with a person to ensure they receive fair representation in a prenuptial agreement.
Sometimes, people enter into a postnuptial agreement for the same reasons they would have entered into a prenuptial agreement. However, they may not have felt comfortable raising the topic of a prenuptial agreement before getting married. After couples have been married for a while, they might become comfortable bringing up the idea of a marital agreement. People also enter into a postnuptial agreement if one party has suddenly experienced a significant amount of debt, such as if a spouse has developed a gambling problem that could affect the couple’s financial status. Postnuptial agreements can also protect someone if they start their own business. Additionally, postnuptial contracts may be helpful if one party suddenly receives or expects to receive a large inheritance or gift.
Work with a skilled Albuquerque attorney who has successfully handled the drafting and negotiation of agreements before and during a couple’s marriage.
Trying to determine how to divide your assets after a divorce can be a contentious matter. If you can agree in advance, either before or during your marriage, the divorce process can be much smoother and easier for your family.
Contact an experienced Albuquerque marital agreements lawyer to discuss your needs and wishes.