Prenuptial/Postnuptial Agreement Lawyer

Trusted Attorney Helping You Protect Your Rights Through a Prenuptial or Postnuptial Agreement in Several Cities or Counties Throughout the Richmond Area

Few couples get married with the intention of getting a divorce. However, divorce is always a possibility. In a Virginia divorce, whether you have substantial assets or not, equitable distribution will be used to split your marital assets and debts. Bitter disputes often arise during divorce proceedings, particularly when it comes to dividing property. However, you may be able to avoid these disputes by creating a legal agreement ahead of time.

Prenuptial and postnuptial agreements can make decisions about the division of assets and debts and other financial and support agreements. These legal documents can be contested. If you hope to enforce a prenuptial or postnuptial agreement, it should be drafted by an experienced attorney. If you want to dispute a prenuptial or postnuptial agreement that you signed, you need a skilled and experienced lawyer to assist you.

Carol A. N. Breit, Attorney at Law, is here to assist with these matters. With over 45 years of legal experience we will provide you with highly effective representation tailored to your objectives. We provide legal help to clients in cities and counties around Richmond, including Henrico County, Goochland County, Hanover County, New Kent County, Powhatan County, and Chesterfield County.

The Benefits of Prenuptial and Postnuptial Agreements

Although it may seem strange to plan for a divorce before you are married or while you are happily married, these marital contracts can be advantageous. Divorces can be bitter, and the deterioration of a relationship can erode your desire to "play fair." Decisions you make during the end of your marriage are often based on emotions, and they may be vastly different from the choices you would have made in better times. When making agreements well before divorce enters the picture, your thoughts will probably be clearer and more reasonable, and you may be able to make better decisions.

It is important to work with an attorney to draft a marital agreement. Your lawyer can make sure your interests are properly protected. If you do choose to divorce, your spouse could contest the validity of an agreement. If that happens, the court will look at factors like whether there was full financial disclosure, whether coercion may have occurred, the clarity of the terms and provisions, the voluntary nature of the agreement, and the overall fairness of the agreement.

Carol A. N. Breit, Attorney at Law, understands how to properly draft marital contracts and have them executed correctly.

Why You Should Consider a Prenuptial Agreement

Premarital agreements are not only for wealthy couples. Before you are married, you or your spouse may own assets like homes, savings and investment accounts, and business interests. This can be true for couples of all ages, but if you are getting married later in life, you will be more likely to own substantial assets. A prenuptial agreement can do several things, including:

• List each person's individual assets
• Define how those assets will be treated if they are commingled with marital assets
• Specify how joint property will be divided if you divorce
• Set terms for spousal support or a waiver of spousal support

These agreements cannot address future visitation or child custody arrangements.

Reasons to Think About Postnuptial Agreements

Couples may decide to enter into a postnuptial agreement for several reasons after they get married, including:

• Preparing for a divorce
• Making long-term care plans and arrangements
• Addressing inheritances
• Protecting business interests and other separate assets and/or wealth
• Providing financial protection for children and grandchildren, including a couple's shared children or children from previous relationships
• Establishing expectations and penalties for marital misconduct

A postnuptial agreement can be written to replace or supplement a premarital agreement.

Contact Our Prenuptial and Postnuptial Agreements Lawyer Serving Richmond, VA and the Surrounding Region

Protecting your interests through legally binding marital contracts can make sure you will be prepared for a potential divorce. Carol A. N. Breit, Attorney at Law, can assist you with drafting a prenuptial or postnuptial agreement. We can also help you enforce or contest a prenuptial or postnuptial agreement during the divorce process. Send us a message online or call 804-282-9226 today to discuss your needs.