It used to be that a prenuptial agreement was a document that only the mega-rich and ultra-famous considered, but now they are becoming common among regular couples who simply want to protect their assets. Essentially, a prenuptial agreement is drafted between two parties who intend to marry, and outlines what will happen to their respective assets in the event that the marriage is not successful.
It can be awkward to talk about the potential of divorce, especially during the idyllic and romantic days that follow an engagement. However, it is vital that you have an open and honest conversation with your betrothed about this topic.
Here’s how to ask for a prenuptial agreement without causing undue stress, frustration or hurt feelings:
Choose an appropriate place and time for the conversation.
Bringing up the topic of a prenuptial agreement can be tricky, so you will want to time the conversation accordingly. It is best to have this discussion earlier in the engagement rather than closer to the wedding date, so that you both have time to create a document that works best for your relationship. Don’t throw it out there in response to an argument, and avoid bringing it up over a romantic dinner. Instead, opt for a comfortable location — such as your own home — when you have plenty of time to talk and neither of you are at-odds with the other.
Make your request a discussion, rather than a demand.
Like many conversations, it’s all in how you approach it. You may want to consider broaching the topic by saying “Have you ever thought about a prenuptial agreement?” or “I’ve been thinking we should discuss the possibility of a prenuptial agreement.” Demanding that you “need” or “require” a prenuptial agreement will almost surely lead to hurt feelings before you can even get the conversation going.
Work together to draft an agreement.
After you have had a lengthy discussion about the need for a prenuptial agreement, you should work together along with your lawyer to draft an agreement that both parties agree to. When both people have a say in the development of the prenuptial agreement, the end result is generally much better.
Due to the fact that many people are delaying marriage and that a large number of people getting engaged have had to deal with the divorce of their own parents, prenuptial agreements are on the rise in Florida and throughout the country. However, the stigma surrounding these agreements has yet to fully disappear. For more information on the best way to discuss and create a prenuptial agreement, contact an experienced Tampa divorce attorney today.
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If you have questions for a Tampa divorce lawyer, or are unaware of the terms and conditions of a Tampa divorce, talk to, and retain, a family law attorney who can help. Contact Damien McKinney of The McKinney Law Group to discuss your case further. He can be reached by phone at 813-428-3400 or by e-mail at [email protected]