Pre-marital agreements, also known as prenuptial agreements (or “prenups”), are authorized by North Carolina law and can be helpful in dealing in advance with issues that might arise should the impending marriage not survive.
Many people are reluctant to discuss such an agreement with a fiancé because it seems unromantic or somehow signals doubt in marriage. However, I would compare pre-marital agreements to wills. No one wants to think about dying, but it is something we are all destined to do. A last will recognizes that fact and addresses the distribution of property upon your death. A pre-marital agreement is simply good planning.
Married couples may also enter into agreement during the marriage that addresses property division or support should the marriage end. These agreements, as well as prenuptial agreements, may help a couple avoid costly and stressful litigation should the marriage end in divorce.
Please schedule a consultation if you want to discuss whether or not a prenuptial agreement is right for you. If you and your spouse have worked out the details and you are ready to draft the agreement, visit our Online Services to create your document or contact us for a consultation.