When most people plan to get married, they rarely think they will be part of divorce statistics. However, according to the Washington State Department of Health’s marriage and divorce data, nearly half of all marriages in the state end in divorce. Many people are also hesitant about the idea of drafting a prenuptial agreement because they feel it would be bad luck to consider that their marriage may end. However, drafting a prenup can benefit all couples, not just those with a high net worth, and does not guarantee you will become a statistic.
A Kent prenuptial agreements lawyer from Lutz & Associates, P.S., could help you draft a fair agreement that protects your future. Our team of highly experienced and strategic family law attorneys focuses solely on this practice area, and we have since 1997. We could provide support for working families by focusing on results through preparation and professionalism.
Advantages of Prenuptial Agreements
Our knowledgeable family law attorneys in Kent could help you understand the benefits of a clear and fair prenuptial agreement. Entering into a legal agreement before marriage can offer you and your future spouse the following advantages.
Honesty About Finances
Entering into a prenuptial contract makes couples up-front and honest about their finances. When you and your future spouse share details about each other’s assets and debts, there will be no unpleasant surprises in the future. Discussing key issues about each other’s long-term financial goals and credit histories can help you both better understand one another’s values and habits. Having these conversations at an early stage can strengthen your marriage by helping you understand and collaborate to move forward toward your shared goals.
Protection of Separate Assets
People often enter into a marriage with some premarital assets. Prenuptial agreements can delineate who owns what property and separate premarital assets from marital community property. Prenups can also be helpful when one individual has a family business or is a partner in a family organization.
Protection Against Premarital Debts
Some people enter into marriage with significant debt, such as college loans, credit card liabilities, or other loans. A premarital arrangement can protect a spouse from being burdened by their other spouse’s premarital debt.
Protection of Children From a Prior Relationship
People who enter into marriage with children from a prior marriage or relationship might want to protect their inheritance. A premarital agreement can specifically safeguard property or other assets that would pass to the children from a prior relationship, particularly if the parent of those children predeceases their new spouse.
Reduction of Uncertainty in the Event of a Divorce
A premarital contract can bring couples much-needed peace by offering clarity about what to expect in the event of divorce. A prenuptial agreement can discuss spousal maintenance and the division of marital property. A well-drafted contract can reduce stress and expenses during a divorce by expediting the process.
What Makes a Prenuptial Agreement Enforceable?
Not all premarital written contracts are inherently enforceable. For an agreement to be legal, it must be fair. Even if a court determines that the arrangement terms are not necessarily fair, the agreement could still be valid if there is proof that both parties entered into it knowingly and voluntarily with their own attorneys, as outlined in the Revised Code of Washington § 26.09.080.
Our seasoned marital lawyers in Kent could help you ensure that your prenuptial contract reflects your wishes and complies with all legal requirements, so the contract holds up in court in the event it needs to be used.
Call a Dedicated Kent Attorney to Start Drafting Your Premarital Agreement
By drafting a prenuptial agreement under the guidance of an experienced lawyer, you could protect your interests and safeguard your assets. The process could also help you and your soon-to-be spouse better understand your individual finances.
If you are considering entering into a marriage contract, call a Kent prenuptial agreements lawyer to discuss your concerns and goals. We could ensure your rights are protected and keep you informed every step of the way. Please call us at (206) 518-9699 or contact us online.
