Assistance Drafting Premarital And Post-Marital Agreements
Many people do not realize the full range of consequences that a marriage can have on their property. Premarital agreements are invaluable tools for protecting parties’ separate property, as well as for defining certain of their rights and responsibilities in the event of a future divorce. Postnuptial agreements enable couples to address certain financial issues and/or concerns that may arise during marriage, thereby reducing future conflicts.
Premarital and/or postnuptial agreements can significantly reduce the cost and aggravation to a couple in the event of divorce. Our attorneys can counsel you regarding the benefits of such agreements in your particular situation, educate you regarding the options available to you, and draft an agreement that addresses your personal issues and goals.
What Is The Difference Between A Premarital Agreement And A Post-Marital Agreement?
A premarital agreement, commonly known as a prenuptial agreement, is a contract that two parties enter into before marriage. It defines each party’s financial rights and responsibilities and addresses property division in the event the marriage ends.
A post-marital agreement, also known as a postnuptial agreement, serves a similar purpose but is created after marriage and subject to higher scrutiny under California’s fiduciary duty standards.
Couples throughout Glendale and California often use these agreements to address financial concerns that develop during marriage. Both types of agreement help protect assets, clarify financial expectations and reduce the risk of future disputes. Each agreement must meet specific legal requirements, including voluntary execution and full financial disclosure, to be enforceable in court.
Why Consider A Premarital Or Post-Marital Agreement?
A well-drafted agreement brings clarity and confidence to both partners. California law allows couples to address many financial matters through these agreements, though child support and custody cannot be predetermined. The benefits may include:
- Defining and documenting separate property
- Preserving family inheritances
- Clarifying responsibility for debts
- Protecting business interests
- Addressing future financial expectations
- Reducing uncertainty during divorce
- Encouraging financial transparency
Taking these steps early can help both parties avoid costly conflicts in the future.
Who Can Benefit?
These agreements serve a broad range of clients. Many individuals and couples in Glendale find that a premarital or post-marital agreement is a smart step toward financial clarity, including:
- Business owners: Protecting a business from marital property claims
- Professionals: Safeguarding licenses, practices or career assets
- Individuals entering a second marriage: Defining financial boundaries from the start
- Parents with children from previous relationships: Preserving assets intended for their children
- Individuals expecting an inheritance: Keeping family wealth as separate property
- Couples with significant separate assets: Establishing ownership before combining finances
- Couples with unequal incomes: Addressing financial expectations openly
No two situations are the same, and we approach each client’s needs with care and precision.
Start Your Marriage On Solid Financial Ground
The decisions you make today shape your financial future. At the Law Offices of Ani M. Garikian, our attorneys bring the legal precision and personal commitment needed to draft agreements that truly protect your interests. To schedule a consultation at our Glendale office, call us at 818-290-8527 or reach out to us online.