Guiding You Toward A Better Future

Do You Need A Prenuptial Agreement Before Marriage?

When a couple gets married, property, money and other assets belonging to one spouse typically become jointly owned marital property — in other words, the property is now owned jointly by both spouses. If you would like to keep your assets separate from your spouse’s once you are married, a prenuptial agreement can be prepared to protect your assets and financial worth even after marriage.

At Wolinetz, Horvath & Brown, LLC, our team of family law attorneys has over 75 years of combined experience helping clients focus on long-term, big picture ideas — including prenuptial agreement preparation — to help ensure that they are well-protected through all stages of their lives. We understand that the decision to get a prenup can be an emotional and touchy one, and we have the experience and understanding to help you quell those concerns and focus on the upside of protecting your future.

What Is A Prenup And What Does It Cover?

A prenuptial agreement is a legal contract between two people who plan to get married that helps define important property rights should the marriage falter. This includes expenses incurred during the marriage as well as what will happen to debts, property and other assets if you divorce or your spouse dies. Once the terms are determined and agreed upon, the prenup agreement must be signed by both parties and the couple must be married for the agreement to take effect.

Prenuptial agreements are meant to address many of the issues that would otherwise be determined during a divorce. Terms of the agreement can cover such issues as:

  • A spouse’s right to owned property
  • Alimony terms, amounts and conditions
  • Division of assets and debts
  • Management of an owned business
  • A spouse’s right to the inheritances or gifts of the other spouse
  • Rights to receive death benefits from insurance policies

Would A Prenuptial Agreement Help Protect Your Future?

While a prenup is not required in Ohio, those who have property or assets — or who have been through a previous divorce — should consider having an attorney create a prenup to help protect your interests. A prenuptial agreement is also often a good idea for those who marry later in life and have already acquired property or other substantial assets. Others who often benefit from a prenuptial contract include those with children, those who want to direct their care after divorce or the death of a spouse, and professionals, businesspeople, athletes, coaches and politicians.

Are you ready to secure your premarital assets before getting married? Our team of dedicated family law attorneys at Wolinetz, Horvath & Brown, LLC has experience drafting valid and enforceable prenup agreements and are here to help ensure that you’re ready for the future. Contact us online or call 614-362-8847 today to schedule a time to meet with one of our Columbus lawyers about your prenuptial agreement.