Prenuptial or Antenuptial Agreements: Agreements made prior to you and your fiancee getting married

Even though it may be the last thing on your mind when planning for a wedding, prenuptial or antenuptial agreements are an essential consideration for many couples in Georgia as they prepare for marriage. This is especially true if you are entering a second or subsequent marriage, or have children from another prior relationship. These legally binding contracts provide a clear understanding of each party's financial rights and responsibilities, offering peace of mind and promoting open communication between partners before and during the marriage. While discussing such matters may feel uncomfortable, addressing these concerns early on can pave the way for a stronger and more transparent relationship. In Georgia, prenuptial agreements must adhere to specific legal requirements to ensure their validity. Our experienced team is here to guide you through the process, providing professional and friendly assistance every step of the way.

Overview of Prenups in Georgia

In Georgia, a prenuptial agreement (prenup) is a legal contract entered in to prior to the parties getting married that outlines how assets and debts will be divided in the event of a divorce.

How to Make Sure Your Prenup is Valid

To be valid, a Georgia prenup must meet certain requirements:

• Voluntary agreement: Both parties must enter into the prenup willingly and without coercion or duress.
• Full disclosure: Each party must provide full and accurate disclosure of their financial assets, liabilities, and income.
• Separate legal representation: While not strictly required, it is highly recommended that each party has their own attorney review the prenup to ensure their interests are protected. In any event, both parties must have the opportunity to have independent legal representation - though one party can waive that right and the prenup still be found valid.
• In writing: The prenup must be in writing and signed by both parties.
• Witnesses & Notarized: When the prenup is signed, it must be done in the presence of at least two witnesses, one of which must be a notary.

Georgia public policy has set up these guidelines, to protect parties from fraud or duress in signing and agreeing to a preset division of property before entering a marriage contract.

When a Prenup is Considered Invalid

Even if you have a prenup, it may not be enforceable when you go to try and apply it in a divorce or separation. A prenup may be considered invalid in Georgia under the following circumstances:

1. Involuntary agreement: If it can be proven that one party was coerced, pressured, or forced into signing the prenup, it may be deemed invalid.
2. Fraud or misrepresentation: If one party has lied about or concealed assets, income, or liabilities, the prenup may be voided.
3. Unconscionability: If the terms of the prenup are extremely unfair or heavily favor one party over the other, a court may decide to invalidate the agreement.
4. Violation of public policy: If the prenup contains provisions that go against public policy or are illegal, the entire agreement may be invalidated.
5. Changed circumstances: In some cases, a significant change in circumstances since the time the prenup was signed, such as the birth of children or a substantial increase in one party's assets, may lead a court to modify or invalidate the agreement.

It's essential to consult with an experienced family law attorney when drafting a prenuptial agreement in Georgia to ensure it meets all legal requirements and adequately protects both parties' interests.

Reasons Why People Get Prenups

Although it may not seem obvious in the throes of romance, there are several reasons why people might consider getting a prenuptial agreement (prenup) before getting married. Some of these reasons include:

Protecting assets: A prenup can help protect individual assets acquired before marriage, ensuring that they remain separate property in case of divorce.

Debt protection: If one partner has significant debt, a prenup can help protect the other partner from being held responsible for that debt in case of divorce.

Business ownership: If one partner owns a business, a prenup can prevent the other partner from gaining control or stake in the company in the event of a divorce.

Inheritance: A prenup can ensure that specific assets or family heirlooms are passed down to designated beneficiaries or children from previous relationships, rather than being divided between both partners.

Spousal support: Prenups can outline spousal support (alimony) terms, including the amount and duration, to avoid potential disputes during a divorce.

Clarifying financial responsibilities: A prenup can help couples discuss and establish their financial expectations and responsibilities within the marriage, promoting transparency and reducing potential conflicts.

Children from previous relationships: If one or both partners have children from previous relationships, a prenup can help protect their inheritance rights and financial interests.

Simplifying the divorce process: Should a divorce occur, having a prenup in place can help streamline the process, as many financial decisions have already been agreed upon, potentially reducing legal fees and emotional stress.

Estate planning: A prenup can be an essential part of estate planning for couples with significant assets, ensuring that their wishes are carried out in the event of death or divorce.

Peace of mind: Although discussing prenups can be uncomfortable, having one in place can provide couples with a sense of security and peace of mind, knowing that they have a plan in place to protect their individual interests.

How We Can Help

At Your Law Firm, we understand the importance of safeguarding your financial future and fostering a strong foundation for your marriage. Our dedicated team of experienced attorneys is committed to providing personalized guidance and expert advice to help you craft a comprehensive and legally sound prenuptial agreement. We will work closely with you to ensure that your unique needs and concerns are addressed, while diligently navigating the complexities of Georgia's legal requirements. With Your Law Firm by your side, you can confidently embark on this new chapter of your life, knowing that your prenuptial agreement is validly executed and designed to protect your best interests.