Why are prenups important?

Here are just some of the ways the prenups can be important—even the most important legal document of your life.

There are myriad reasons why prenups are important—but it’s different for everyone, since everyone has a different financial situation, different assets to consider, and of course, different relationships and dynamics with their significant other. Here are just some of the ways the prenups can be important—even the most important legal document of your life.

Protecting assets

A prenup can protect each spouse's assets that they bring into the marriage or acquire during the marriage. This can be particularly important if one or both spouses have significant assets or debts.

Clarifying financial responsibilities

A prenup can outline how financial responsibilities will be divided during the marriage, which can help avoid disagreements and misunderstandings.

Reducing conflict

If a couple does get divorced, having a prenup in place can help reduce conflict and make the divorce process smoother and more efficient. And in some states where divorce court is part of the process, having a prenup can help you avoid your private issues becoming public knowledge.

Protecting family businesses

A prenup can help protect family businesses, assets and even heirlooms by specifying how they will be passed down or divided in the event of divorce or separation.

Addressing issues unique to the couple

A prenup can address specific issues that are important to the couple, such as who would have custody of a family pet, or how often the couple will visit each other's families. Prenups are much more customizable than most people realize, and can cover as few or as many topics as you wish.

These are just a few reasons why one may want a prenup, and of course, they’re not totally necessary for every couple. For most couples, however, they can be incredibly beneficial in creating a sense of certainty for your marriage’s financial future, and are a useful tool for opening up conversations about money with your future spouse. If you think a prenup might be important to you, have an open and honest conversation with your partner, and consult with us when you’re ready.