Prenuptial agreements are one of the more misunderstood aspects of a pending marriage and a possible divorce. Many couples feel that the step is unnecessary due to their more modest financial standing.
However, prenups – as they are commonly called – serve a fundamental purpose in the event of a union falling apart, even those who do not enjoy significant wealth. While no one wants to pre-plan for a potential separation, it can make difficult times a bit easier with formal documentation.
More couples “signing up”
The misconception seems to be fading as more couples take the more proactive route. A Harris Poll revealed that 15 percent of engaged or formally wed respondents signed pre- or post-nuptial agreements. The statistic represented a three percent jump when looking at 2010.
Family law experts see the documents as an insurance policy where you plan for the worst. They also encourage couples to have the conversation sooner rather than later. Some even go so far as to start the talks upon placing the engagement ring on a future partner’s finger. That conversation should also include future financial objectives to ensure that both soon-to-be spouses are on the same page.
Another benefit of such a pact is the ability to tailor the prenup to a couple’s situation. Without it, Florida state laws take over, leaving the decision-making process out of the hands of soon-to-be-divorced couples.
While the future of any relationship is unknown, signed documents ensure that even the most contested of marital dissolutions will have some form of roadmap should the partnership dissolve.