ASKING FOR A SAME-SEX PRENUPTIAL AGREEMENT
There is a misconception that prenuptial agreements (or “prenups”) are reserved only for the rich and famous. But these days a growing number of same sex couples from all walks of life are choosing to protect their futures with a prenuptial agreement.
The benefits of a prenuptial agreement are many, from protecting yourself financially should you and your spouse divorce, to allowing you both to engage in meaningful conversations about your future before you make that final commitment. The problem that many couples face, however, is introducing the topic without causing any amount of strife in their relationship.
DISCUSSING PRENUPTIAL AGREEMENTS
Below are a few things to keep in mind when introducing the topic of a prenuptial agreement to your partner.
1. START TALKING ABOUT IT EARLY
The sooner you begin to have conversations about entering a prenuptial agreement, the better. The best time to bring up the topic is during your initial talks about marriage after you are engaged. This will take the time and emotional pressure off of both partners.
If your partner is not comfortable with the conversation at that moment, back off and wait a few days before reintroducing the topic again.
2. EXPLAIN WHY A PRENUPTIAL AGREEMENT IS IMPORTANT TO YOU
Tell your partner why a prenuptial agreement is important to you, from protecting your financial futures and those of your children to making important financial decisions together such as investments, travel and debt repayment strategies.
3. DECIDE ON THE TERMS AS A TEAM
You can hire a mediator to help you draw up terms that favor both of your interests. Make sure that you still hire independent attorneys, however, to review the final draft (otherwise your agreement may not be upheld if it is challenged).
4. LISTEN TO YOUR PARTNER
The needs, wants and concerns of your partner are going to be different from your own, and some may even contradict yours. Listen to them with an open mind and if a disagreement does come up, consider a compromise.
5. CONSIDER WHAT MAY CHANGE OVER TIME
Prenuptial agreements can be challenging as they largely take into account events that have not even happened yet. You and your partner may start a joint business, for example, or one spouse may choose to be a stay-at-home parent while the other works.
LEARN MORE ABOUT SAME-SEX PRENUPTIAL AGREEMENTS WITH LAVINSKY LAW
Based in Los Angeles, Lavinsky Law helps same sex couples in Southern California write fair and lawfully sound prenuptial agreements that protect the interests of both partners. We invite you to call us today for a free consultation to discuss your prenuptial agreement at (310) 929-6411.