When a couple intends to marry, it is never easy to face the possibility of a future split. However, many marriages in this country ultimately end in divorce. This reality makes it beneficial for you to consider protecting yourself in the future with a marital agreement. A dedicated family lawyer can advise you on how a marital contract might help you.
Marital agreements could provide you with clarity regarding your financial future. They are useful in clearing up issues related to spousal support or property division before a divorce ever becomes necessary. Let a Little Gables marital agreement lawyer serve as your advocate during this important process.
What Issues Can Marital Agreements Address?
There are many reasons why a marital agreement could be useful. Some of these reasons might be clear right away, while others might only become relevant during the course of the marriage. A Little Gables marriage agreement attorney can work with someone to develop an agreement that covers the following issues:
- Disposition of life insurance;
- The right to receive alimony;
- The division of assets or debts;
- The right to buy or sell property;
- The ability to make or alter a will or trust.
Not every issue that might arise during a divorce case can be resolved through a marital agreement. While spouses have the right to reach an agreement on financial issues, that is not true when it comes to matters of child custody.
The law requires child custody issues to be decided based on the best interests of the child at that time. It is not unusual for these best interests to diverge from the wishes of one or both parents. Given the duty to act in the child’s best interest, the law does not allow for parents to come to a binding agreement on custody outside of the court system.
Types of Marital Agreements
There are two common types of marital agreements used under Florida law: prenuptial and postnuptial agreements. A Little Gables marriage agreement attorney can assist with determining the best possible agreement for a couple before drafting it for them.
Prenuptial Agreements
A prenuptial agreement is a type of contract that is signed and executed prior to a couple’s wedding. The purpose of these agreements is to provide the couple with a clear picture of their financial future before the wedding occurs. While the agreement is signed prior to the wedding, it only goes into effect once the marriage is finalized. Although many people consider prenups to be exclusively for those with high assets, most couples could benefit from the peace of mind that comes with a certain future.
Postnuptial Agreements
Postnuptial agreements are like prenups, with one important difference. Instead of entering into these agreements prior to marriage, postnuptial agreements are written and signed during the marriage. There are different reasons for seeking postnups, including using them to prepare for divorce or to protect one spouse from the unexpected debt accumulated by the other.
Protect Your Future and Call a Little Gables Marriage Agreement Attorney Today
If you are considering a marital agreement of any kind, it is important that you do not pursue one on your own. There are certain requirements that you must meet for these agreements to be valid, and The Florida Probate & Family Law Firm can assist you in properly writing them.
Now is the time to put your trust in a Little Gables marriage agreement lawyer. Call our office right away to learn more during a free consultation.