
High-asset divorces have become increasingly common in Tampa, reflecting both the region’s economic growth and the overall rise in affluent households. When a marriage involving significant wealth dissolves, the stakes can be extraordinarily high. Assets subject to division might include real estate portfolios, lucrative business interests, investment accounts, retirement funds, and even valuable collections of art or jewelry. Under Florida law, divorcing spouses must divide these assets “equitably,” which often leads to complex negotiations and potential litigation. When emotions run high, the process can become lengthy and exceedingly costly. One crucial way to mitigate such complexities and safeguard your financial future is through a prenuptial agreement. By working with a Tampa prenup lawyer, couples can establish clear guidelines for asset division long before the possibility of divorce arises.
A prenuptial agreement—often referred to simply as a prenup—is a legal document signed before marriage that outlines how finances, assets, and liabilities will be managed in the event of a divorce or separation. While prenups are not exclusive to the wealthy, they become especially significant for individuals and couples who possess, or expect to possess, high-value estates. If you have substantial or complicated assets, ignoring the possibility of a divorce can be a grave oversight. In Florida, divorce courts generally aim to split marital property equitably, which may not always be a perfect 50-50 split. Instead, the court considers many factors, including the length of the marriage, each spouse’s contributions, and the economic circumstances of each party.
Prenuptial agreements offer clarity by explicitly stating what belongs to whom and under what conditions. Not only can this protect you from an unfair division of property, but it can also dramatically reduce the emotional strain of a contested divorce. Equally important, a prenup can define how future earnings, as well as ongoing financial responsibilities, will be handled. For high-asset couples in Tampa, the ability to predetermine these critical issues can be the difference between a smooth process and a drawn-out legal war. Below, we explore why prenups make such a difference in high-asset divorces, addressing everything from business ownership and estate planning to spousal support and Florida’s unique homestead protections.
Complexities of High-Asset Divorce in Tampa
High-asset divorces in Tampa often involve more than just bank accounts and family homes. Some couples own businesses that span multiple states or even multiple countries. Others have offshore accounts, unique investments in emerging markets, or significant stock holdings in private corporations. Such assets can fluctuate in value, requiring professional appraisals to arrive at a fair assessment during divorce proceedings. Determining who contributed to these assets—or how their value should be partitioned—can fuel conflict, especially if one spouse contends that they played a major role in the asset’s growth.
Florida’s equitable distribution principle can exacerbate tensions. Unlike community property states that split marital assets 50-50 by default, Florida courts consider various factors that aim for “fairness.” This often leads to negotiations that hinge on subjective judgments—such as how much a stay-at-home spouse contributed by providing childcare, or how a particular business’s growth was influenced by the other spouse’s involvement. For a couple with few assets, these debates might be relatively straightforward. But when tens or hundreds of millions of dollars are on the line, the stakes skyrocket.
Another layer of complexity arises from Florida’s homestead protections. The state’s constitution guards homestead properties—often the marital home—from certain types of forced sales, but these rules can intersect with divorce proceedings in convoluted ways. Wealthy couples might hold multiple properties in Tampa and other locations, leading to confusion about which properties qualify for homestead exemption and how that affects the divorce settlement. Such intricacies underscore why prenups can be invaluable: by addressing ownership and classification of properties beforehand, couples avoid the burden of sorting through these complexities under emotional duress.
Additionally, financial instruments like stocks, bonds, and retirement accounts can significantly appreciate during a marriage, making it difficult to categorize the portion that belongs to the marriage versus what remains separate. A prenuptial agreement can preempt many of these disputes by clearly delineating each spouse’s separate property and specifying how any appreciation will be allocated. For instance, you can declare that any growth in pre-marital stocks remains the separate property of the original owner, or you could agree to share a percentage of it. Without such an agreement, you run the risk of entangling all appreciation in a lengthy legal battle.
When you also factor in intangible assets—like intellectual property or brand goodwill—things get even more complicated. An inventor might develop a patent during the marriage that transforms into a multi-million-dollar venture. Or, one spouse might author best-selling books, generating substantial royalty income over time. Florida divorce law can treat these intangible assets as marital property if their value grew during the marriage. Conversely, a prenuptial agreement clarifies who retains ownership, how future revenues are split, and whether one spouse deserves compensation for supporting the other’s intellectual endeavors.
Why Prenuptial Agreements Matter So Much
Given the pitfalls of a contested, high-asset divorce, prenuptial agreements stand out as a prudent strategy for long-term security. Far from being merely a “rich person’s tool,” these agreements help couples of varying wealth levels define boundaries and expectations. In high-asset scenarios, though, the stakes are particularly high. Let’s examine how prenups bring order and fairness to a situation that can quickly devolve into chaos.
- Defining Separate vs. Marital Property
Florida law generally considers property acquired during the marriage to be marital, subject to division. Property you owned before marriage is typically deemed separate, but lines can blur if you use marital assets to maintain or improve that separate property. A prenuptial agreement clearly states which assets remain separate, preventing claims that they became marital over time. This clarity is invaluable for high-asset couples who might see significant appreciation on properties or investments acquired before marriage. - Simplifying Valuation Issues
High-asset divorces often stall when appraising specialized or illiquid assets—like private companies, luxury collectibles, or complicated investment vehicles. A prenuptial agreement can outline a valuation formula or identify a neutral third-party appraiser, preventing fights over the “true” value of a business or estate. When you’re dealing with multi-million-dollar assets, establishing a valuation process in advance can significantly reduce both legal fees and stress. - Protecting Business Interests
For entrepreneurs, safeguarding a company is often the top priority. A contested divorce can jeopardize not only personal finances but also business operations. A prenuptial agreement helps ensure that the enterprise remains under the control of the original owner, with fair but limited claims by the non-owner spouse. Investors and co-founders also breathe easier, knowing that an ownership dispute won’t tear the company apart. - Addressing Future Earnings
Successful professionals often expect their incomes to grow, especially in a flourishing city like Tampa. Whether one spouse is a high-powered attorney, a medical specialist, or a tech entrepreneur, a prenuptial agreement can set guidelines for how future earnings or bonuses will be divided—or not divided—if the marriage ends. This prevents one spouse from making windfall claims on the other’s career trajectory. - Spousal Support Clarity
Florida courts award alimony based on various factors, including the standard of living during the marriage and each spouse’s earning capacity. With a prenup, you can reduce uncertainty by prescribing how much alimony, if any, will be owed and for how long. While courts sometimes review and possibly override unconscionable alimony provisions, a fair agreement that respects both parties’ contributions stands a high chance of being upheld.
In a high-asset divorce, each of these considerations becomes amplified. Without a prenuptial agreement, you may face months or years of court battles, staggering legal bills, and a significant loss of privacy as financial records become part of the public record. Additionally, the emotional toll of extended litigation can be devastating, harming relationships with children, business partners, and extended family. A well-drafted prenup eliminates much of that risk, outlining a roadmap that courts generally respect unless it violates principles of fairness or was signed under duress.
Key Elements of an Effective High-Asset Prenuptial Agreement
Merely having a prenuptial agreement isn’t enough; its contents must be comprehensive and legally sound to withstand scrutiny. This is where a Tampa prenup lawyer proves indispensable. Drafting such a document requires a nuanced understanding of Florida’s divorce laws and careful consideration of each spouse’s financial and personal circumstances. Below are core elements that high-net-worth couples typically include in their prenups:
- Detailed Financial Disclosure
Full disclosure of assets, liabilities, and income streams is critical. Courts can invalidate prenups if they believe one spouse didn’t receive a clear picture of the other’s financial standing. For high-asset couples, this step often involves compiling investment statements, business valuations, property deeds, and more. Transparency at this stage prevents accusations of hidden assets during divorce proceedings. - Classification of Current and Future Assets
The agreement should specify which assets are considered separate and which might be shared. It can also define how any assets acquired after the wedding will be categorized. For instance, you may choose to treat a new property purchase as separate if it’s funded entirely by one spouse’s income or inheritance. Alternatively, you might want to classify certain purchases as marital. Either way, clarity is crucial. - Valuation Methods
For business owners or holders of unique assets like cryptocurrency, specifying how these will be appraised is essential. You might name a third-party valuation firm or agree on a particular formula, such as using an industry standard or average of multiple appraisals. This step prevents standoffs if the marriage breaks down, since both spouses already accepted the method for assigning a dollar figure to complicated assets. - Alimony and Spousal Support
Florida courts typically review alimony provisions in prenups to ensure they are not unconscionable. Still, you can detail terms like the duration and amount of support, or set triggers that alter spousal support if certain conditions—like job loss or severe illness—arise. While a judge retains some discretion, a balanced clause makes it likely the court will respect your agreement. - Handling of Debts
High-net-worth individuals may also carry substantial liabilities, such as mortgages on multiple properties or business loans. A prenup can stipulate which debts remain separate and how the couple will manage any marital debts. This clarity extends to credit card bills, personal lines of credit, and future financial obligations like educational expenses for children. - Inheritance and Estate Planning
If you want to ensure that certain assets pass directly to your children from a previous marriage, or to other relatives, a prenuptial agreement can integrate those wishes with your broader estate plan. This is particularly important if your spouse might otherwise have a claim on those assets under Florida’s elective share rules. - Sunset Clauses
Some prenups include a “sunset clause,” which renders the agreement void after a certain number of years. This can serve couples who believe that if their marriage endures a long time, the original asset division plan might become outdated. However, be cautious: changing or canceling a prenup after it’s in effect usually requires both spouses to sign a postnuptial agreement. - Dispute Resolution Mechanisms
Including a clause that mandates mediation or arbitration before court litigation can streamline divorce proceedings, especially for wealthy individuals who value privacy. You can specify the location of arbitration, the selection of arbitrators, and even the rules under which mediation will occur.
In constructing these elements, it’s imperative to avoid one-sided or fraudulent terms. Florida judges can reject prenups that severely disadvantage one spouse or that are entered under pressure. Ethical drafting ensures both parties have the chance to consult separate legal counsel. This approach not only reinforces the agreement’s legality but also protects against future claims of duress or misunderstanding.
Common Misconceptions About High-Asset Prenups
Even though prenuptial agreements offer substantial benefits, myths and misunderstandings persist, sometimes deterring couples from exploring this vital option. Below, we clarify a few of the most prevalent misconceptions:
- “Prenups Are Only for Celebrities and the Ultra-Wealthy.”
While they do gain media attention when celebrities sign them, prenups are valuable for a wide range of couples. If you have any assets that you want to protect—like real estate, a business, or even future earnings—signing a prenup can be a wise move. Certainly, high-asset individuals have stronger incentives, but this legal tool is not reserved exclusively for the top 1%. - “They Show You Don’t Trust Each Other.”
In reality, drafting a prenup can enhance trust by promoting complete financial disclosure and clarifying expectations. Many couples feel relieved once they know exactly how finances would be handled in a worst-case scenario. Rather than predicting divorce, a well-crafted agreement fosters transparency and open communication, which can strengthen the marriage. - “Florida Courts Will Throw Out Prenups Anyway.”
While courts do scrutinize prenuptial agreements, especially if they seem heavily skewed or lack proof of full disclosure, judges usually uphold them when they’re fair and properly executed. The key is ensuring both parties sign willingly, without coercion, and with a full understanding of the terms. - “A Prenup Can Cover Everything, Including Child Custody.”
Florida courts base child custody and support decisions on the child’s best interests, regardless of any prenup provision. Prenups can address property and financial concerns, but they cannot predetermine custody or waive child support obligations. Attempting to include such clauses might weaken the contract’s validity. - “We Don’t Have Enough Assets to Justify a Prenup.”
This myth assumes that you won’t acquire significant assets down the road. Many people marry young and later amass considerable wealth. If your career trajectory points toward higher income, or you anticipate inheritances or business opportunities, drafting a prenup now can save future turmoil.
Demystifying these misconceptions is crucial for high-asset couples in Tampa. A prenuptial agreement is not an admission of failure; it’s a strategic step that preserves your freedom to manage your wealth on your own terms. Its value becomes even more evident when you consider how drastically a divorce can affect your financial landscape, especially if children, businesses, and extensive property holdings are part of the equation.
Timing and Execution: Getting It Right
The best time to discuss a prenuptial agreement is well before the wedding date. Surprising your fiancé with a prenup days before the ceremony can lead to claims of pressure or coercion—both of which might invalidate the document. Aim to start the conversation months in advance, allowing enough time for both spouses to consult with their own lawyers and negotiate terms comfortably. This timeline also allows for the professional appraisals or valuations sometimes required in high-asset cases.
Each spouse must have the opportunity to read the agreement thoroughly and seek independent legal advice. If one spouse doesn’t have counsel, the contract can be attacked later as unfair or not fully understood. Transparency is equally important; concealing assets or misrepresenting values can undermine the entire agreement. Resist the urge to bury complicated clauses in fine print. Instead, keep the language clear and direct, specifying exactly how you will handle each category of assets.
In addition to signing the prenuptial agreement, some couples choose to have it notarized or witnessed, although Florida law doesn’t strictly require notarization. Taking these extra steps bolsters the document’s credibility, reducing the chance that someone could later claim the signatures were forged or that the agreement was never properly executed. Proper storage is also wise: keep both a physical and digital copy in a secure place, with each spouse having access to the final, signed version.
Under certain circumstances, couples revisit their prenuptial agreements after marriage. Maybe your net worth skyrocketed because your startup took off, or maybe you inherited property that wasn’t in your plan before. You can modify or replace a prenup with a postnuptial agreement, adhering to the same rules of disclosure and voluntariness. However, keep in mind that amending the contract usually requires both spouses’ explicit consent. If one spouse no longer agrees, you’re stuck with the original terms—or none at all—unless a court intervenes.
The Role of a Tampa Prenup Lawyer
Choosing the right legal counsel can make or break your prenuptial agreement, especially in a high-asset context. A Tampa prenup lawyer offers expertise that extends beyond basic contract drafting. They understand the nuances of Florida’s equitable distribution laws, local property regulations, and the potential pitfalls that can lead to an unenforceable prenup. Furthermore, a seasoned lawyer can guide you through the emotional complexities of negotiating an agreement with your future spouse.
For instance, an experienced attorney helps ensure you haven’t overlooked any assets or liabilities. Many people forget about intangible holdings like future royalties on intellectual property or vesting stock options. Others fail to realize that partial ownership in a family business could be considered a marital asset. A skilled attorney will conduct a thorough asset review, working in tandem with financial professionals as needed. This attention to detail protects against the possibility that your spouse or a court later accuses you of hiding property.
An attorney also advises you on the difference between harsh but enforceable clauses and unconscionable or illegal ones. For example, a spousal support clause that leaves one spouse destitute might raise red flags in a Florida court. Similarly, any mention of child custody or child support might weaken the agreement’s enforceability. The best lawyers steer you away from such pitfalls, ensuring your prenup remains robust while still respecting your partner’s rights.
If your fiancé also hires separate counsel, negotiations become more balanced. This scenario lessens claims that one spouse was blindsided or coerced. It also fosters a sense of mutual respect, as both parties know they can rely on legal advice designed to protect their interests. While hiring separate attorneys can seem costly, it’s a fraction of what a high-asset divorce might cost if litigated for years. The investment in thorough legal support now can spare you from a financial and emotional ordeal later.
Real-World Impact on High-Asset Divorces
Imagine two high-net-worth individuals entering marriage in Tampa. Both have flourishing careers, each stands to inherit a substantial estate, and collectively they own multiple properties across Florida and beyond. Without a prenup, each spouse’s separate property can become entangled if marital funds are used to pay taxes or make improvements. Or, if a business grows during the marriage, the increase in value can become a point of contention. If these matters end up in court, valuations can cost tens of thousands of dollars, and combative attorneys can drive total legal fees into the six or even seven figures.
Conversely, if the couple signs a well-structured prenuptial agreement, many of these disputes may never arise. Perhaps they agree that inherited assets remain separate, regardless of whether marital funds enhance them. Maybe they adopt a formula that calculates how much each spouse contributed to the increase in a business’s value. They might stipulate that a certain property remains the sole possession of one spouse, while any marital home purchased afterward belongs jointly. Each scenario is spelled out, leaving less room for argument.
Because high-asset divorces often attract attention, especially if the individuals hold prominent roles in the Tampa community, a prenuptial agreement also preserves privacy by cutting down on public court battles. If you can settle the major points of property division privately, you avoid airing your financial laundry in open court. This discretion can be vital for business owners, celebrities, or anyone with a strong public image.
The real-world impact can also extend to extended family or business partners. A prenuptial agreement reassures them that personal conflict won’t upend an enterprise’s stability or disrupt generational wealth transfers. In many multi-generational family businesses, prenuptial agreements become an unspoken requirement for heirs who plan to marry. This ensures that, even if a personal relationship fails, the family’s enterprise remains intact.
Preparing Emotionally for a Prenup
Though prenuptial agreements make abundant legal sense, discussing them can be fraught with emotion. Some worry that it signals lack of trust, while others fear it might ruin the romance. However, approaching the conversation as a step toward mutual security can defuse much of the tension. Frame it not as a plan for divorce, but as a roadmap for how you’ll handle finances. Emphasize that it’s about safeguarding both parties, especially in a high-asset environment where misunderstandings can be catastrophic.
You might schedule time for a calm, private discussion, free from daily stressors. Each partner can prepare questions about the assets they care most about, from retirement accounts to business interests. A constructive approach might involve creating lists of personal goals—like wanting to preserve a family property or ensuring that a certain portion of your wealth goes to philanthropic efforts. By weaving these aspirations into the prenuptial agreement, you transform it into a testament of your combined values.
Seeking mediation can also help. If you find yourselves hitting emotional roadblocks, a neutral third party can guide conversations and help you reach balanced decisions. Some couples even discover that drafting a prenup accelerates deeper emotional intimacy. They realize that by trusting each other with full financial transparency, they’re committing to a marriage that’s built on honesty and clear expectations. Rather than a harbinger of divorce, the prenuptial agreement becomes an emblem of genuine partnership.
Consequences of Skipping a Prenup in High-Asset Scenarios
While a prenuptial agreement may feel like an added chore in the midst of wedding preparations, the cost of forgoing one can be immense if the marriage falters. In high-asset divorces, each spouse might hire seasoned attorneys, accountants, appraisers, and financial experts to unravel the complexities. The divorce can stretch on for years, draining personal finances and emotional well-being. Even if you ultimately reach a settlement, the legal fees alone can represent a significant loss.
Furthermore, in the absence of a prenuptial agreement, judges have broad discretion in dividing marital property. You may find yourself forced to sell properties, liquidate business shares, or borrow against valuable assets to satisfy a court order. In worst-case scenarios, controlling shares of your company could end up in the hands of someone who never contributed to its success. Or, you could lose rights to precious items with sentimental or historic value, all because the law deemed them marital property.
Your family and colleagues might also bear the brunt of a long, public divorce. If you’re a key player in a major Tampa business, the uncertainty surrounding your marriage might reduce stakeholder confidence or hinder your ability to make decisive moves. Employees could worry about the company’s future. Clients might lose trust in your capacity to remain focused. In these ways, personal decisions ripple outward, affecting not just you but everyone who depends on you.
Some couples opt for postnuptial agreements once they realize the risk. However, these agreements are more challenging to negotiate because the leverage dynamics have changed after marriage. A spouse might feel less inclined to compromise, especially if they sense any advantage from staying silent. Though still possible, forging a postnup can be more contentious and, ironically, more emotionally taxing than discussing a prenup beforehand.
Building a Future-Proof Strategy
Choosing to sign a prenuptial agreement is not about foreseeing doom. Rather, it’s about building a holistic strategy for a secure, happy marriage. High-asset couples often have big dreams—expanding businesses, philanthropy, travel, or raising a family in one of Tampa’s beautiful neighborhoods. A prenup lays a foundation that supports these ambitions rather than letting them be overshadowed by financial uncertainties.
When you and your spouse know exactly how assets will be handled, you can focus on bigger-picture issues—career growth, real estate investments, or philanthropic ventures—without the looming question of “What if we don’t make it?” This emotional security frees both partners to support each other’s professional and personal growth. Many couples actually report feeling closer after finalizing a prenup, as they’ve tackled one of life’s most fraught topics—money—in a manner that respects each partner’s individuality.
If children enter the picture, a well-constructed agreement can protect their future, ensuring that college funds or certain properties remain reserved for them. You can also set guidelines for how you’ll handle parental responsibilities, though keep in mind that Florida courts maintain the final say on child-related matters. Even so, having a plan can reduce confusion if you face adversity or tragedy later on.
Estate planning is another dimension that a prenuptial agreement can address. Your prenuptial agreement can dovetail with wills, trusts, and advanced healthcare directives, forming an integrated legal framework. This synergy is particularly pertinent if you or your spouse expect to inherit wealth. You want to keep that inheritance separate or define how it might be partially shared. By synchronizing your prenup with estate documents, you avoid contradictory language that could undermine your wishes.
Conclusion
High-asset divorces in Tampa underscore just how vital it is to plan ahead. With so much at stake—business interests, real estate investments, retirement portfolios, and more—the last thing you want is to let courts dictate outcomes that you and your spouse could have arranged yourselves. A prenuptial agreement stands as one of the most effective ways to create stability, protect cherished assets, and reduce the emotional toll of a potential split. Not only does it clarify how you’ll handle property division, spousal support, and complex valuation issues, but it also fosters a level of transparency that can strengthen the marital bond.
The city of Tampa offers a robust environment for wealth creation, from thriving tech start-ups to booming real estate markets along the bay. Yet with success comes responsibility. If you’re preparing for marriage—or even if you’re already engaged—taking the time to consult a Tampa prenup lawyer can shape your future in profound ways. You’ll address crucial topics like business valuations, inheritance strategies, and financial obligations well before conflict arises. Through full disclosure and open communication, you and your spouse can design a prenuptial agreement that respects each other’s contributions and aspirations.
Admittedly, no one likes to think about their marriage ending. But the reality is that unforeseen events—from health crises to major life changes—can place stress on even the strongest unions. Viewing a prenuptial agreement as a form of insurance helps reframe the conversation. Just as you buy homeowner’s insurance to protect your property, you secure a prenup to protect the wealth you’ve built or hope to build. Should the worst happen, you at least have a roadmap that spares you from costly, drawn-out litigation. That clarity benefits not only you and your spouse but also your extended families, business partners, and even the broader community that relies on your economic activity.
Ultimately, a well-executed prenuptial agreement is about empowerment—empowering you and your spouse to define your own financial story rather than leaving it to state default rules or court judgments. When drafted properly, it serves as a testament to your respect for each other’s independence and a commitment to harmonious problem-solving. If you find yourself in a high-asset divorce without a prenup, you’re likely to encounter far more roadblocks and heartbreak than those who planned ahead. So take that proactive step. Consult a Tampa prenup lawyer, outline the terms that make sense for you, and place your marriage on a foundation that’s both financially secure and emotionally sound.
FAQ
1. Can I include spousal support or alimony provisions in a prenuptial agreement?
Yes. Prenuptial agreements often outline how much spousal support, if any, should be paid in the event of a divorce. However, Florida courts reserve the right to disregard alimony provisions deemed unconscionable. To increase the likelihood of enforceability, consult a Tampa prenup lawyer who understands how to craft balanced and legally sound clauses.
2. Will my business remain safe if I have a prenup?
Generally, yes, provided the agreement clearly states that the business remains separate property and describes how valuation or any increase in value will be handled. This can prevent a spouse from claiming a significant share of ownership in the event of divorce. Detailed language is crucial to ensuring the court respects the agreement.
3. Do both spouses need separate attorneys for a prenup?
It’s highly recommended. Separate attorneys ensure each party’s interests are fully represented, reducing claims of duress or ignorance later on. Hiring individual counsel also enhances the agreement’s credibility in the eyes of the court, minimizing the risk of it being invalidated.
4. Can a prenup be updated after marriage?
Yes, through a postnuptial agreement. Circumstances like significant income changes, new business ventures, or inheritances might prompt an update. Both spouses must agree to the revised terms and follow the same rules of disclosure and fairness that apply to the original prenup.
5. What if I discover hidden assets after signing the prenup?
A spouse who conceals assets may compromise the entire agreement. Florida law requires full disclosure. If significant hidden assets come to light, a judge could decide the prenup is void or unenforceable. Working with a Tampa prenup lawyer early on can help ensure all assets are on the table, minimizing this risk.
Every relationship is different, and your prenuptial agreement should reflect that. At The McKinney Law Group, we help Tampa couples craft tailored prenups that offer protection, fairness, and a shared understanding of financial priorities.
Our services include:
✔ Identifying and preserving separate property
✔ Creating balanced alimony terms or waivers
✔ Customizing provisions for blended families
✔ Ensuring full financial disclosure and procedural fairness
✔ Drafting and reviewing agreements that meet Florida legal standards
Start your marriage with clarity, not confusion—we’ll guide you every step of the way.
For professional prenuptial agreement services in Tampa, contact Damien McKinney at 813-428-3400 or email [email protected] today.