Postnuptial Settlements: Agreements made after you and your spouse are married

A postnuptial settlement, also known as a marriage contract in Georgia, is a legal agreement between spouses that details the division of assets and liabilities in case of a divorce or separation. While marriage contracts may not be a romantic topic, having one in place could save you from financial and emotional turmoil down the line. Common reasons that people make postnuptial settlements include having a high net worth, owning a business or property, entering a second marriage with children from a previous relationship, or facing economic uncertainty. In Georgia, postnuptial settlements are enforceable as long as they are signed voluntarily and with the full disclosure of assets and liabilities. Overall, while postnuptial settlements are not necessary for every couple, it is always wise to consult with a legal professional to determine if one is right for your specific situation.

More about Postnuptial Settlements or Marriage Contracts ("postnups")

Are you and your spouse considering a postnuptial settlement in Georgia? If so, there are a few requirements you should be aware of. Firstly, both parties must voluntarily sign the settlement agreement, which must be reduced to writing. Additionally, the terms of the agreement must be fair and reasonable. Any provisions that are found to be unconscionable or against public policy may be deemed unenforceable. This means that all assets, debts, and other property must be disclosed by each spouse to the other spouse, to promote openness and fairness in the construction of the marriage contract. It is recommended that each party consults their own legal counsel to ensure that their rights and interests are protected. Also, the spouses must sign the marriage contract in front of at least two witnesses, one of whom must be a notary public. With these requirements in mind, you can move forward with confidence that your postnuptial settlement will be valid and legally binding.

What a Postnup Does and Doesn't Protect

As previously stated, a postnuptial settlement in Georgia is a document that outlines the distribution of assets and responsibilities between spouses, in the event of a divorce or separation. Specifically, it can protect assets that each spouse brings into the marriage or acquires during the marriage, as well as determine whether and how spousal support will be awarded. However, it's important to note that a postnuptial settlement may not protect against situations such as child custody or support, which are typically addressed in separate agreements at the time of separation or divorce. Additionally, some may view a postnuptial settlement as an indication of mistrust or uncertainty in a relationship, so it's important to approach the topic with sensitivity and open communication between both spouses. Understanding the benefits, limitations, and potential downsides of a postnuptial settlement in Georgia can help couples make informed decisions when it comes to protecting their assets and futures.

Reasons to Make a Postnup

As we've seen, a postnuptial settlement, also known as a postnuptial agreement or marriage contract, is a legal document that outlines the division of assets, liabilities, and responsibilities between spouses in the event of divorce or separation. Most people know about prenuptial agreements - entered into before two people get married - but you may be wondering why anyone would enter into such an agreement after they were wed. To help answer that question, here are ten common reasons why people might consider creating a postnuptial settlement after they get married:

Financial Transparency: Postnuptial agreements can promote open communication about finances, helping couples establish trust and transparency in their financial lives.
Asset Protection: A postnuptial agreement can protect each spouse's individual assets, such as businesses, inheritance, or property acquired before marriage, ensuring that these assets remain separate in case of divorce.
Debt Management: Postnuptial agreements can clarify how marital debts will be divided if the couple separates, protecting each spouse from being held responsible for the other's debts.
Spousal Support: Couples can use a postnuptial agreement to predetermine spousal support arrangements, providing clarity and reducing potential conflicts during a separation.
Child Custody and Support: While child custody decisions cannot be predetermined in a postnuptial agreement, couples can outline their intentions for child support, including any special needs, education expenses, or other considerations.
Estate Planning: Postnuptial agreements can help couples create a comprehensive estate plan, ensuring that their wishes are carried out in the event of death or incapacitation.
Marriage Counseling: Creating a postnuptial agreement can serve as a form of marriage counseling, allowing couples to address and resolve issues in their relationship before they become contentious.
Changing Circumstances: As life changes, so do financial situations and priorities. A postnuptial agreement can be updated to reflect new circumstances, ensuring that both partners are protected and treated fairly.
Peace of Mind: Having a postnuptial agreement in place can provide peace of mind for both spouses, knowing that they have a plan for handling any potential future challenges.
Simplified Divorce Process: If a couple decides to separate, having a postnuptial agreement can simplify the divorce process by predetermining many of the decisions that need to be made, reducing conflict and potentially saving time and money.

While postnuptial agreements may not be suitable for every couple, they can offer numerous benefits for those who choose to create one, especially those with significant assets or involved in family businesses that could be harmed by a divorce or separation. By addressing potential issues proactively, couples can strengthen their relationship and ensure that they are prepared for whatever the future may hold.

How We Can Help

At Your Law Firm, we understand the importance of safeguarding your financial assets. That's why we offer creation of postnuptial settlements and marriage contracts as a means of ensuring your financial security. Our experienced legal team will guide you through the entire process, ensuring that all legal requirements are met and your interests are protected. With our assistance, you can rest easy knowing that your financial future is secure, regardless of what the future may hold. Contact us today to learn how we can help you protect your financial assets through a postnuptial settlement or marriage contract.