Long Island Prenuptial and Postnuptial Agreement Lawyer

Helping Couples Plan for Their Future and Protect Their Assets

When spouses in New York decide to separate, the law will determine the distribution of marital property. Prenuptial and postnuptial agreements provide couples with a proactive approach to safeguarding their assets and interests in the event of divorce. These agreements offer a level of predictability and control over the division of property and financial matters that may not be achievable through standard legal procedures.

By establishing clear guidelines for asset division and financial responsibilities, couples can minimize potential conflicts and uncertainties during divorce proceedings. Prenuptial and postnuptial agreements can specify which assets are considered separate property, protecting them from being subject to division in divorce settlements. These agreements can outline the terms for spousal support or alimony payments, providing a level of certainty for both parties. They can also address issues such as the division of retirement accounts, intellectual property rights, and the treatment of business interests acquired during the marriage.

While some may view prenuptial and postnuptial agreements as pessimistic or unromantic, they serve as valuable tools for ensuring financial security and peace of mind in the face of an uncertain future. By addressing these matters proactively, couples can focus on nurturing their relationship without the looming fear of potential financial disputes in the event of divorce.

While many happy, soon-to-be-married couples can't possibly imagine or foresee their marriage ending in divorce, the truth is that even some of the strongest marriages don't last forever. At Samuelson Hause PLLC, we genuinely hope that your marriage lasts a lifetime and that you and your partner experience nothing but happiness and joyous memories for as long as you both shall live. That said, our Long Island prenuptial and postnuptial agreement lawyer also encourage you to be prepared, protected, and financially secure should your marriage end differently than you plan.

Schedule a consultation with our Long Island prenuptial and postnuptial agreement lawyers by calling (516) 584-4685 or submitting an online contact form today.

What Is a Prenuptial Agreement?

A prenuptial agreement is a legal document specifying a couple's wishes in marriage and in the event of a divorce or legal separation. The contract provides instruction concerning how property division, maintenance (alimony), estate rights and all other important aspects of a marriage should be dealt with if the marriage ends in divorce.

What Can Be Included in a Prenuptial Agreement?

A New York prenuptial agreement is a practical way to take proactive steps to protect each spouse's financial interests before marriage.

With a prenup, spouses can:

• Identify marital and separate property
• Arrange spousal maintenance, and
• Set expectations for premarital debt.

A prenuptial agreement can help ensure a smooth transition into married life with realistic expectations that encourages transparency between the spouses.

What Is a Postnuptial Agreement?

A postnuptial agreement is a contract between spouses, enabling them to decide how their assets, debts, and other financial matters will be managed if they get divorced. It is similar to a prenuptial agreement, with the primary difference being that it is created after the couple is married.

What Can Be Included in a Postnuptial Agreement?

AIn addition to addressing property division, spousal support, and debt allocation, a postnuptial agreement can also cover various other aspects of marital life.

These may include provisions for how assets acquired during the marriage will be managed, clarification on financial responsibilities, arrangements for children from previous relationships, directives for handling joint accounts or investments, and even agreements on how to handle potential future disputes or changes in circumstances. The flexibility of postnuptial agreements allows couples to tailor them to their specific needs and circumstances

What Makes a Prenuptial or Postnuptial Agreement Valid in New York?

As mentioned, a prenuptial or postnuptial agreement can override the property division laws in New York and help resolve matters like spousal maintenance. For a court to recognize the spouses' wishes, the documents must be valid.

A valid prenuptial or postnuptial agreement is one in which:

• Each spouse had their own attorney when the contract was drafted,
• Both spouses fully disclosed their assets before the document was signed,
• Neither spouse entered the contract because of coercion or force, and
• The terms are fair to both parties and do not favor one spouse over the other.

How a Long Island Divorce Attorney Can Help

We understand that drafting a prenuptial or postnuptial agreement can be an extremely sensitive issue to bring up right before marriage, and that asking your spouse to sign a prenup or postnup may lead to conflict during the months and weeks leading up to your special day.

Drafting a prenuptial or postnuptial agreement doesn't have to be an awkward experience. At Samuelson Hause PLLC, we will discuss the benefits of establishing either and address any concerns you may have.

Our Long Island prenuptial and postnuptial agreement attorneys have represented hundreds of clients throughout Nassau County, Suffolk County and the greater New York metropolitan area. We can make sure your needs, concerns, and wishes are addressed and included in your prenuptial or postnuptial agreement. Before or after you get married, make sure to protect yourself and your future.

If you need help drafting a prenuptial or postnuptial agreement in Long Island, please contact Samuelson Hause PLLC at (516) 584-4685 today.