Woodbury Prenuptial Contract Lawyer
Whether you are getting married, already married or are thinking of getting a divorce, it is important to plan for the future. Property division can be very complicated and cause high litigation costs in the event of a future divorce.
In Minnesota, a pre-marital or pre-nuptial agreement is called an antenuptial agreement. An ante-nuptial or separation agreement used to prepare for a possible future divorce is much like preparing for an untimely death or incapacitating illness in the form of a will, succession plan, or power of attorney. Contact our St. Paul separation agreement attorney today to discuss responsible planning for your future.
Separation and Ante-nuptial Agreement
Separation and ante-nuptial agreements are valid in Minnesota if they are properly witnessed. The function of these agreements is to identify assets, debt, and circumstances where relief in the form of property division or spousal maintenance will be provided in the event of a future divorce.
Ante-nuptial agreements are particularly helpful when there's a disparity in assets or resources on the part of one party versus the other. Ante-nuptial agreements can be used to identify what is personal versus what is marital property. They are also useful in the case of second marriages. Either party may have accumulated property during their first marriage. There may also be children from a first marriage whose property interests need to be protected.
The terms of an ante-nuptial or separation agreement are binding as they are written. It is crucial that an attorney experienced in drafting antenuptial agreements review or draft the terms.
Post-nuptial Agreement
Post-nuptial agreements, as the name implies, are contracts entered into between spouses after marriage. They are only valid under Minnesota law if each spouse is represented by separate legal counsel.
Just like a separation agreement or ante-nuptial agreement, they are particularly useful to provide structure and guidance in the form of property division. Importantly, postnuptial agreements may not validly address child custody and parenting time or child support.
Experienced Prenuptial Contract Attorney
Gregory Dittrich and his staff at the Dittrich Law Firm, P.A. understand that ante-nuptial, post-nuptial or separation agreements are not predictors or signs of failure. They are useful tools to protect both parties from future litigation expenses and further damage to your relationship and family. Mr. Dittrich believes that planning is important in every aspect of life, whether it be retirement, savings, purchases of homes or cars, marriage or divorce.
Mr. Dittrich's years of experience have also taught him that sometimes other legal documents, such as a title, deed or will may be used to accomplish the same thing as an antenuptial or separation agreement. He will evaluate your situation and legal needs and advise you on what makes the most sense for you.
Contact our Woodbury prenuptial contract lawyer today for straightforward and honest advice. He will give you a straightforward explanation of the pros and cons of entering into an ante-nuptial, post-marital or separation agreement.
