Pre-Nuptial Agreements and Post-Nuptial Agreements

If you are contemplating marriage and have assets to protect, you might be wise to consider a pre-nuptial agreement. Although not legally binding in the UK, pre-nuptial agreements hold significant weight with the courts in reaching a financial settlement. A post-nuptial agreement is the same as a pre-nuptial agreement but drawn up following a marriage.

The family law team at O’Donnell Solicitors are able to advise you in relation to pre- and post- nuptial agreements. Our solicitors pride themselves on being straight-talking; meaning you will not only be fully aware of the terms you are agreeing to, but we will also aim to reach an agreement in a swift and cost-effective manner.

There are a number of requirements that a pre-nuptial agreement must meet in the event that it ever needs to be called into play by the court. The pre-nuptial agreement must be in writing; must be fair; and must cover the needs of any children. Each party is required to take independent legal advice and fully disclose their finances; and the agreement must be made in good time before the wedding, with no undue pressure on either party to enter into the agreement.

If you have an international element to your situation, then you may also need to take advice from a lawyer in the other jurisdiction.

Pre-nuptial agreements can be a useful tool in avoiding the escalation of disputes in relation to the division of your assets should you ever separate.

If you have assets to protect, such as inheritances, property or a business, or if you are getting married later in life and perhaps have significant assets or children from previous relationships, a pre-nuptial agreement can provide you with reassurance and peace of mind when entering a new marriage.

Contact our Family Law Solicitors  

To speak to our family law solicitors about taking the proactive step of entering into a pre-nuptial agreement, or to seek advice on putting a post-nuptial agreement in place, please contact us here.