Tuesday, July 29, 2008

What You Need to Know About Prenuptial Agreements

By Cristi Trusler

Prenups are no longer just limited to wealthy couples. People in all kinds of situations and from all socio-economic backgrounds are deciding to spell out their responsibilities and rights before their wedding. And, if a couple decides to divorce at some point in the future, it can clarify how assets and property will be divided.

We should start with a definition. What is a prenup? It is written agreement that a couple signs before their marriage. If death or divorce separates the couple, then the prenup states the rights of the properties of the couple or their legal heirs. It addresses both assets and liabilities.

People in numerous situations are beginning to see the positive benefits of a prenuptial agreement. It's no longer limited to the wealthy.

Prenups allow couples with blended families to pass on assets and property to their children while still providing for each other. In this situation, a prenuptial agreement protects the children of the deceased spouse. It can also prevent the assets and property from passing to the surviving spouse.

Prenuptial agreements also clarify financial rights and responsibilities during the marriage. If one partner has significant debt, a prenuptial agreement can protect the other partner by releasing him or her of the responsibility of the debt incurred before marriage.

Prenuptial agreements can also help couples separate more amicably and with less stress should they divorce. While there are still a few states that won't allow a spouse to give up rights to alimony (sometimes called spousal maintenance) a prenuptial agreement can address whether or not the spouse will receive alimony.

If a couple signs prenup agreement it does not mean they are not strongly committed to each other. Neither it means they do not trust each other. On the other hand, it may mean just the opposite. It may help you to build a stronger marriage as it clearly states what is expected of each one.

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