Discussing a prenuptial agreement is probably the last conversation you want to have with your fiancé. And, in fairness, your fiancé is probably not going to find the topic uplifting or romantic. However, prenuptial agreements, or “prenups,” are important contracts that protect the asset and property rights of both spouses in the event of divorce. Usually, it’s the notion of divorce that turns a lover cold to the idea of prenup.
Time & Place
How you introduce the topic is important. You should to be straightforward with your fiancé, but also careful. For example, you don’t want to start the conversation with, “I want a prenup.” That may immediately set your fiancé on edge. You both should to be in a positive frame of mind for this conversation to successfully take place.
Don’t start the conversation:
- In the middle of a romantic dinner
- With friends or family backing you up
- During a fight
- At night before bed
The first thing you should to do is plan a time for the two of you to talk privately. Transparency is key if you want to avoid a misunderstanding. Make this a conversation about the benefits of prenuptial agreements instead of a one-sided explanation or demand.
It’s important that you describe why this is necessary without ignoring your fiancés feelings. It’s an unfortunate statistic, but over 40% of all marriages end in divorce. A prenuptial agreement saves money and prevents a bitter divorce because everything is legally prepared in advance. There aren’t any questions about property division, spousal support, or even child custody (unless the court decides it’s against a child’s best interests). This is about planning for the future, not anticipating a worst-case scenario.
Don’t get upset or angry if you don’t get the response you want. This is a difficult conversation, and your fiancé may need time to adjust to the idea. You are both partners in this relationship, so it’s essential to have these tough conversations and you may come out stronger because of it. Compromise is necessary in relationships, and sometimes you have to risk upsetting or disappointing your partner to build a healthy relationship.
Begin the Drafting Process
A prenuptial agreement can take away anxieties that often damage marriages. Contact Chesser & Barr, P.A. if you’re interested in drafting a prenuptial agreement. Our experienced Okaloosa County family law attorneys can help you create a thorough and effective prenuptial agreement that protects your interests.
Contact our Okaloosa County family lawyers at (850) 610-7471 to schedule a case evaluation.