Taking A Positive Approach To Your Prenuptial Agreement

When you are happily in love and charting out the course of your life together, the last thing that is likely to be on your mind is the prospect of getting a divorce. For this reason, many people are  reluctant to bring up the idea of a prenuptial agreement with their partners, out of fear of being accused either of ‘jinxing’ the marriage or of having some underlying doubt about making a lifetime commitment. The fact is that seeking help from a family law attorney to draft this type of agreement has positive benefits for the couple, and can actually help start your marriage off on the right step.

Prenuptial Agreements and Premarital Property

Property division is a common area dealt with in prenuptial agreements. Section 31-15-7 of the Indiana Code, which dictates how property is to be divided in the event of a divorce, applies only to marital property, which is that which the couple accumulates after they are married. It does not apply to any pre marital property, which a prenuptial agreement will typically list.

Conducting an inventory of your current, individually owned assets is a good idea for any couple contemplating marriage. Potential benefits include:

• Provides full disclosure of any financial accounts, loans, real estate, and business interests;
• Stimulates discussion regarding each person’s financial habits;
• Can help lay the groundwork for budgets and future financial goals;
• Can provide a checklist in terms of which property titles or accounts need to be put into both names.

Communication Is Key To Success

Communication is the key to success in any relationship. A Time/Money report on the advantages of entering into a prenuptial agreement states that the process of sitting down together and thoughtfully discussing issues that commonly arise during a divorce can be a great tool in helping couples with the following:

• Provides insights into each other’s needs, motivations, and concerns about getting married;
• Reveals expectations that each partner has of the other in terms of marital responsibilities and duties;
• Allows each person to share their viewpoint on matters related to childcare and family obligations;
• Gives a framework for dispute resolution and problems solving through discussion and compromise.

Our Indiana Family Law Attorneys Are Here To Assist You

To find out more about prenuptial agreements and how they might apply to your situation call or contact the Bellinger Law Office today. We can arrange a consultation in our Fort Wayne office with our experienced family law attorney, who can help answer your questions and address your concerns.