Here’s why having a thoughtfully crafted prenup is essential for couples planning a secure future together.
New Jersey’s Premarital Agreement Act Governs Prenups Prenups in New Jersey must comply with the Premarital Agreement Act, which governs:
Formation requirements (writing, voluntary execution, etc.) Permissible subject matter (property rights, spousal support, etc.) Disclosure obligations Enforcement standards and grounds for invalidation Modification and revocation procedures Without a prenup, couples have no say in these matters, and state law will control.
Financial Uncertainty and Asset Risk Without a Prenup If there’s no prenup:
All assets and debts are subject to equitable distribution by the court during a divorce, which may not reflect your intentions. Property you consider separate may be contested and assigned as marital property, costly to litigate. Failure to adequately disclose all assets in a prenup or waiver of disclosure rights can invalidate the agreement, forcing courts to divide assets under default state rules. This loss of control often results in surprise financial hardship for one or both parties.
Spousal Support Costs and Legal Battles Alimony in New Jersey is decided case by case, considering multiple factors. Without a prenup:
You risk courts ordering unexpected or indefinite spousal support. Legal fees for divorce and asset disputes can run high, especially when no clear financial agreements exist upfront. Prenups allow couples to define or waive spousal support terms, preventing long, costly battles.
Emotional and Opportunity Costs Skipping a prenup can lead to:
Prolonged, acrimonious legal disputes filling courtrooms and draining emotional reserves. Financial pressure and uncertainty affecting your life plans and family stability. Potential for lawsuits challenging hidden or undisclosed assets, sometimes escalating to allegations of fraud. Why New Jersey Couples Choose Prenups with First At First, New Jersey couples create fair, enforceable prenups easily, with:
First helps couples avoid the legal and financial pitfalls of skipping a prenup and start their marriage with confidence. Don’t let the hidden costs of skipping a prenup in New Jersey jeopardize your future. Safeguard your assets and peace of mind with a prenup designed for you.
