Prenuptial agreements in Wisconsin often have a bad reputation and are frequently misunderstood. They can be important tools to use to protect yourself and your assets going into a marriage. What's more: they offer transparency, and that's a good place to start a marriage.
At Krajnek Law Office, as your family law attorney in Manitowoc, I can help you understand if a prenuptial agreement is right for you. Contact me online or at 920-769-5027 to schedule a free initial consultation and learn more.
Prenuptial Agreements in Wisconsin
When two people are about to head down the aisle, they sometimes enter into a prenuptial agreement first. A prenuptial agreement is a before-marriage contract that lays out the specifics of what will happen to the property they own should the marriage fail.
Prenuptial agreements in most states can be used to address many different issues, including:
- What property should be considered marital and what should be considered separate? Instead of having a judge decide this matter pursuant to the laws of your state, you can decide beforehand.
- Protections for certain property. For example, if the engagement ring is a family heirloom on the spouse's side, the parties may agree that in the event of divorce, the ring goes back to the husband.
- You may agree that should one or both spouses want a divorce, the parties are required to go through mediation or arbitration.
Prenuptial agreements in most states cannot be used to address certain issues, including:
- Custody and issues of child support are not allowed to be addressed in prenuptial agreements. The court will determine what is in the child's best interest, not the parents.
- Courts do not like provisions that address personal rather than financial issues. For example, a prenuptial agreement should not contain a provision stating where the parties will spend their Christmases.
- A prenuptial agreement should not be used to address anything that is illegal. For example, if the family earns money through the sale of illegal drugs, who gets that business in case of divorce is not allowed to be addressed.
To be sure your prenuptial agreement is enforceable, it is best to make the terms as fair as possible to both parties.
Who Should Have a Prenuptial Agreement in Wisconsin?
While many people can benefit from the use of a prenuptial agreement, it is especially beneficial for people in the following situations:
- If you own a business, it is a good idea to look into a prenuptial agreement. This helps protect the business in case of divorce.
- If you own significant assets, a prenuptial agreement is a good idea to keep them protected.
- If you have children from a previous marriage, a prenuptial agreement can assist in protecting the inheritance of those children.
Contrary to popular opinion, prenuptial agreements aren't just for the wealthy. They can provide needed protection to people from all walks of life.
Do You Need a Family Law Attorney in Wisconsin for a Prenuptial Agreement?
While you may be tempted to draft your own prenuptial agreement before getting married, it is a good idea to speak with an attorney regarding how these contracts work in your state, including what you can and cannot address. Courts have a tendency to look for reasons to find these agreements unenforceable, so the help of an attorney is almost necessary to ensure your prenuptial agreement is upheld in case of divorce.
Contact a Prenuptial Agreement Lawyer in Wisconsin Today
Protecting your assets and family is important. Make sure your prenuptial agreement in Wisconsin is designed to do just that but in a way, it complies with the law. At Krajnek Law Office, as your family law lawyer, I will review, draft, and negotiate a prenuptial agreement on your behalf, ensuring that your interests and rights are heard and upheld. Contact me online or directly at 920-769-5027 to schedule a free initial consultation.