Especially if you’re in the first flushes of romance with your partner, a pre-nup may be the last thing on your mind when you get engaged. Let’s face it, signing a contract to protect your respective assets should your marriage come to an end is hardly the most optimistic way to start your life together. However, before you dismiss the possibility of drawing up one of these documents, it’s important to understand the benefits they can bring.
Prepares you for the unforeseen
No matter how in love you and your partner are, it’s impossible to predict exactly what the future has in store for you both. The fact is, a high proportion of marriages now come to an end and no matter how determined you are to make your relationship work, it’s important to be prepared for this possibility. According to figures published by the Office for National Statistics in 2012, 42 per cent of marriages in England and Wales concluded with divorce. Whether one or both of you meets someone else, the pressures of domestic life get too much, you to drift apart or you simply fall out of love, a host of things can put partnerships at risk.
By having a pre-nup in place, you can benefit from greater security that if your marriage does fall apart, at least your assets will be better protected. To find out exactly what your options are when it comes to these contracts and to ensure you don’t experience any nasty surprises further down the line, it’s wise to seek legal advice. Specialists in family law in Islington and elsewhere can help you to draw up a suitable document and they will ensure you understand the legal status of the contract.
Encourages open communication
One thing that puts many people off pre-nups is the worry that even mentioning this topic to their partners will lead to suspicion, resentment and arguments. In fact though, partners are often very understanding when the subject is brought up. Many couples find that these contracts can actually help to encourage open and effective communication in the early stages of their relationships. Bear in mind that it is much better to plan future financial agreements now when your relationship is strong and you are most in tune with your partner than further down the line if your relationship has broken down. By this point, you might find it hard to reach a consensus that you are both happy with and you’re more likely to end up embroiled in potentially acrimonious disputes.
Making an informed decision
Whether or not a pre-nup is right for you will depend on a host of issues, including your financial situation and your plans for the future. To ensure that you make the best possible choice, it’s important to get clued up on the facts. These contracts aren’t necessary or suitable for all couples, but for some soon-to-be spouses, they can boost peace of mind and eliminate a range of possible problems in the years to come.