Prenuptial Agreements

Marriage is a bond not entered into lightly. Yet many of us neglect our financial priorities when it comes to marriage. A prenuptial agreement is an excellent method for keeping your assets your own in the event of a divorce and/or death.

Prenuptial agreements are not just for the well-off. Every couple and family has their own particular circumstances which may be best served by a prenuptial or antenuptial agreement. Today, there are more blended families with children from previous marriages. People are marrying later in life, and some come into their marriages well-established and with significant assets. Perhaps there is a family business that needs to be protected. At Gerten and Van Valkenburg, PA, our attorneys are available to assist your family's unique circumstances. Planning ahead makes each of your intentions clear to your beneficiaries to avoid confusion and litigation.

A prenuptial agreement, also known as an antenuptial agreement or a premarital agreement, is a voluntary agreement between the two parties that is drafted and signed prior to the marriage. In order for the agreement to be effective, it should address issues such as property distribution, spousal support, inheritance rights and other matters associated with the end of a marriage. An experienced attorney will be able to guide you through this process effectively.

The attorneys at Gerten and Van Valkenburg, PA, have years of experience working with people who want to create an agreement tailored to their specific needs. We will not attempt to make a blanket, generic agreement fit our clients; instead, we work with your specific concerns to craft an agreement for your situation. We listen to what our clients want, and help to guide you to the resolution you are looking for. We also create post-nuptial agreements for our clients who are already married, and can do so for you if you are in that situation..

While no one ever hopes a prenuptial agreement will ever be put into effect, it is important that the document is created so that it will be upheld. Our attorneys ensure that all requirements are met so that it is available and enforceable should it ever be needed. It also helps your children understand your views and serves as a guide as to your specific preferences.

Creating a solid pre- or post-nuptial agreement does not mean that you do not trust your spouse, or that you expect the marriage to end in divorce. What it does mean is that you have planned for the future, no matter the contingencies. Our attorneys are ready to help you with this, effectively opening communication and planning ahead. Contact us if you are considering the plans for your future.