When couples are planning to marry, they often have a number of difficult decisions to make. Where should we live? Should we start a family? How will we pay for a wedding?
Even though these can be thorny questions to answer, they are essential. The same can be said for another difficult question: should we have a prenuptial agreement? Like the others, this question can be awkward and uncomfortable to discuss. However, there are ways to make it a little easier.
Understand the purpose
Too many people dismiss the idea of a prenuptial agreement because they don’t think they need one. They assume these agreements are only for the very rich, or for people who have doubts about their marriage.
These assumptions are not accurate. Modern prenups can accomplish many goals and provide critical protection, even for couples who have yet to build significant wealth. With a prenup, parties can negotiate spousal support and set rules for navigating a divorce, should one occur. It can also identify separate assets and debts to shield them from division.
Talk about it at the right time
Give yourselves time to have open, honest discussions. This means not waiting until the week before the wedding or springing it on the other person while you are waiting for your friends to meet you for dinner.
Instead, talk about it in a comfortable place when you have time to ask questions and express your wishes. Aim for a time when you are both in good, productive moods and don’t expect to resolve every issue right away.
Take it seriously
Prenups are legal contracts. There are legal specifications for what makes them enforceable in Connecticut. They have the potential to provide significant protection, or they could prove to be quite costly for people who do not take the time to review and negotiate them. As such, both parties should have legal representation and scrutinize the agreement before signing anything.
These few tips can make it easier to have what may not be an easy conversation. And while it can be tempting to minimize the subject or avoid it altogether, talking about a prenup can help couples protect themselves and their futures.