When it comes to marriage, few topics trigger more anxiety or confusion than prenuptial agreements. For some couples, talking about a prenup is a healthy part of planning for the future. For others, it stirs up mistrust, insecurity, or even fear. But regardless of how you feel about prenups, one thing is certain: if you’re not careful, you could end up falling victim to a prenup scam—or worse, signing a document that won’t stand up in court.
In today’s world of downloadable legal templates, AI-generated contracts, and so-called “discount prenup services,” couples are increasingly exposed to prenuptial agreements that are unenforceable, unbalanced, or downright fraudulent. At The McKinney Law Group, we’ve helped countless clients navigate the world of prenuptial agreements with clarity and confidence. As experienced Orlando prenup lawyers, we believe that the key to protecting your financial future and your relationship is knowledge.
In this blog post, we’re diving deep into the red flags, risks, and realities of prenup scams—and how to protect yourself with a legitimate, enforceable agreement drafted by a trusted Orlando prenup lawyer.
What Is a Prenup Scam?
A prenup scam doesn’t always involve a con artist in the traditional sense. Sometimes the scam is subtle: it’s a poorly drafted agreement pushed on one partner under pressure, or a generic online form that gives a false sense of security. In other cases, it may be a dishonest or manipulative use of a prenup by someone trying to secure financial control.
A prenup scam, in short, is any situation where a person is misled, coerced, or disadvantaged by a prenuptial agreement that doesn’t reflect a fair or legal process.
Some common prenup scams or pitfalls include:
- Using online templates that don’t comply with Florida law
- Failing to disclose assets, making the agreement vulnerable to court challenge
- Coercing a partner to sign without time for review or independent counsel
- Signing an agreement that is grossly one-sided or unconscionable
- Being told that a verbal agreement or handwritten note is binding
- Having an agreement drafted by someone not licensed to practice law in Florida
- Using AI-generated contracts that don’t meet enforceability standards
Avoiding these traps is crucial for any couple serious about protecting their future—and their relationship.
Why This Matters in Orlando
Orlando is a hub of growth and diversity. With an expanding professional class, entrepreneurs, real estate investors, and high-net-worth individuals, there’s a rising demand for prenuptial agreements. But that also means more people are vulnerable to fast, cheap, and unreliable prenup options.
Whether you’re getting married in a luxury Dr. Phillips estate or planning a family life in Winter Park, the risks of a poorly handled prenup are the same. Only a properly drafted, fully disclosed, and mutually agreed-upon prenup will protect your interests.
As a trusted Orlando prenup lawyer, my mission is to ensure that couples understand both the power and the potential pitfalls of these agreements.
Red Flags That Signal a Prenup Scam
Let’s break down the warning signs that a prenup may not be legitimate, enforceable, or fair.
1. The Agreement Was Downloaded Online—With No Legal Advice
If your prenup came from a free website or legal template service, and you didn’t have it reviewed by an attorney licensed in Florida, there’s a good chance it’s not enforceable. Florida has specific requirements under the Uniform Premarital Agreement Act, and most generic templates don’t meet them.
2. One Party Didn’t Have Time to Review It
Courts are skeptical of prenups signed just days (or hours) before the wedding. If someone was pressured to sign without time to reflect, it may be seen as coercion—even if no physical force was involved.
3. There Was No Full Financial Disclosure
If either party hides assets or debts, the prenup can be challenged later. Complete transparency is a legal requirement. A prenup based on partial or false financial data isn’t just unfair—it’s a ticking time bomb.
4. One Person Didn’t Have Their Own Lawyer
While Florida doesn’t require both parties to have independent counsel, it’s one of the strongest protections against future challenges. If you were encouraged or forced to sign without legal guidance, that’s a red flag.
5. The Terms Are So Lopsided They’re Shocking
Courts may not enforce a prenup that is deemed “unconscionable.” That means the agreement is so one-sided that it shocks the conscience. If one person keeps all the assets, avoids all debts, and waives alimony, while the other gets nothing, the court may throw it out.
6. It Was Signed Under Duress
Threats like “If you don’t sign this, the wedding is off,” or emotional manipulation can lead a judge to find the agreement invalid. Prenups must be signed voluntarily, with understanding and without pressure.
7. The Drafting Attorney Isn’t Based in Florida
Prenup laws vary widely by state. A prenup prepared by an attorney in another state—or someone not licensed to practice in Florida—may not comply with local requirements. That’s why working with a qualified Orlando prenup lawyer is essential.
Real-World Examples of Prenup Scams and Disasters
The Last-Minute Signature
One client came to us after signing a prenup handed to her at the rehearsal dinner. She had no time to read it, no lawyer, and was told that refusing to sign would embarrass the families. The agreement gave her nothing—not even a marital share of the home they would live in together. Years later, the court invalidated the prenup, but only after a long, expensive court battle.
The AI-Generated Agreement
Another couple used an AI tool to “draft” their prenup. It looked professional but failed to include basic Florida requirements like full disclosure and waiver language. The court rejected the document outright during divorce proceedings. They had to litigate asset division from scratch.
The Hidden Assets
A business owner in Orlando drafted a prenup that left out several LLCs and investment properties held in his name. When the marriage ended, his spouse discovered the omissions and successfully challenged the agreement due to lack of disclosure.
These stories aren’t just cautionary tales—they’re reminders that doing it right the first time can save years of litigation, expense, and stress.
How an Orlando Prenup Lawyer Protects You from Scams
A skilled attorney does more than draft a document. Your Orlando prenup lawyer serves as a legal guide, advocate, and protector of your interests. Here’s how:
1. Full Legal Compliance
Your lawyer will ensure that your prenup complies with Florida law, meets procedural requirements, and avoids language that could later be used to challenge its validity.
2. Thorough Financial Disclosure
We assist clients with preparing a complete financial inventory to ensure transparency. This includes real estate, business interests, trusts, investments, retirement accounts, and even crypto assets.
3. Clear, Custom Language
Generic terms don’t account for the complexity of real life. A real prenup should address specific scenarios: what happens if one spouse becomes a stay-at-home parent? What if someone sells a business? What about future inheritances?
4. Fairness and Enforceability
An Orlando prenup lawyer will help you draft terms that are fair—not just today, but ten years from now. Agreements that appear abusive or extreme are more likely to be challenged and tossed out.
5. Independent Counsel Coordination
We strongly recommend that both parties have independent attorneys. We can refer your future spouse to other qualified lawyers who understand Florida prenup law, ensuring that the agreement is defensible for both of you.
6. Proper Execution
We guide clients through correct signing procedures, including witness requirements and notarization. We also maintain records to help protect against future claims of duress or improper execution.
Tips to Avoid Prenup Scams and Mistakes
- Start early – Give yourself months, not days, to negotiate and review.
- Hire a licensed Orlando prenup lawyer – Local expertise matters.
- Insist on full financial transparency – From both parties.
- Avoid extreme terms – Fairness now means fewer problems later.
- Don’t sign under pressure – If it feels rushed, stop.
- Have both parties represented – Separate attorneys help prevent claims of unfairness.
- Don’t rely on AI or online templates – Legal strategy can’t be automated.
- Update if necessary – Life changes. You can revise your prenup later with a postnup.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I just use an online prenup form?
We strongly advise against it. Florida law has specific requirements that generic online forms rarely meet. A poorly written prenup is often worse than no prenup at all.
What if my fiancé refuses to get their own lawyer?
While it’s not mandatory, it’s highly recommended. If your partner refuses legal counsel, make sure your lawyer advises you on how to document the process thoroughly. A good Orlando prenup lawyer will guide you through the safest path forward.
Is it a red flag if my fiancé wants to rush the prenup?
Yes. Rushing, pressuring, or last-minute signing can all lead to enforceability issues. It’s a red flag if one party refuses to allow time for proper review.
Can a prenup be changed after marriage?
Yes. That’s called a postnuptial agreement. It can modify, replace, or reaffirm a prenup. Your Orlando prenup lawyer can draft a postnup if your circumstances change after marriage.
Are prenups only about protecting the wealthy?
No. They’re about clarity, not just money. Even couples without high net worth use prenups to define roles, protect inheritances, or set rules for managing joint and separate finances.
What happens if my prenup gets challenged in divorce court?
If your prenup was properly drafted and executed, courts usually uphold it. But if there was fraud, duress, or lack of disclosure, it may be invalidated. That’s why working with an experienced Orlando prenup lawyer is so important.
Can a prenup protect future earnings or business growth?
Yes. With proper language, your prenup can address appreciation in business value, income growth, or intellectual property royalties. A lawyer can draft it to cover future contingencies.
How do I talk to my fiancé about getting a prenup without offending them?
Approach the conversation with honesty and empathy. Focus on how a prenup protects both of you and provides peace of mind. Framing it as part of financial planning often helps.
Can someone scam me into signing a prenup I don’t understand?
If you sign without legal advice or under pressure, you may be at risk. Courts look at whether each party understood the agreement and had time to review it. Protect yourself by working with an attorney.
Do prenups protect against divorce, or just plan for it?
Prenups don’t prevent divorce—but they make the process less painful. They allow both parties to move forward more peacefully and preserve the assets and values they care about.
At The McKinney Law Group, we believe that a prenuptial agreement is not a sign of mistrust—it’s a sign of maturity, clarity, and shared responsibility. But like any legal tool, a prenup is only as good as the process behind it.
If you’re planning a wedding in Central Florida, don’t fall for scams, shortcuts, or one-size-fits-all solutions. Work with a trusted Orlando prenup lawyer who understands your goals, protects your legacy, and drafts agreements that truly stand the test of time.
Contact us today to start building your future—with confidence and clarity.
The McKinney Law Group: Thoughtfully Crafted Prenuptial Agreements for Orlando Couples
A prenuptial agreement is one of the most valuable tools an engaged couple can use to foster financial transparency and long-term peace of mind. At The McKinney Law Group, we help Orlando couples create custom, enforceable prenupsthat reflect their unique goals, protect their assets, and support a strong foundation for marriage.
We assist with:
✔ Protecting personal and family-owned assets
✔ Clarifying financial responsibilities and expectations
✔ Defining fair terms for spousal support, if needed
✔ Addressing business ownership, future income, and estate planning
✔ Ensuring your agreement complies with Florida law
We’ll guide you through the process with clarity, respect, and confidentiality.
Call 813-428-3400 or email [email protected] to schedule your Orlando prenup consultation today.