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Newly married Lansing couples may not want to consider the possibility of divorcing in the future, but some suggest that such a consideration may be a positive option. The reason is that, during divorce, property division can be an emotional, challenging process that can drag on for lengthy periods of time. However, couples who want to avoid the added stress of such processes should the future hold divorce, may consider the benefits of a postnuptial agreement.
A postnuptial agreement operates in a similar way to a prenuptial agreement, only it is signed after the vows are said. A marital contract, a post-nuptial agreement outlines how couples would divide property and assets in the event of divorce. The American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers has found that the number of couples considering such a contract is increasing.
A postnuptial agreement can be drawn for couples who believe their marriage to be dissolving, or for those who are still happy and merely want to be protected. A postnuptial agreement can include anything from personal property to checking accounts, from china to custody of the family pet. One couple chose to enter into a postnuptial agreement because they had both been divorced before and wanted the security that such a contract affords.
Like many contracts, if all components are not fully disclosed by each party, the contract can be dismissed as invalid by the court. It is important that Lansing couples considering a postnuptial agreement carefully consider the process of property division and how they would each like to see the process carried out. If emotions run high and tension mounts, it may benefit couples to take a break and revisit the subject later. Lansing couples may also benefit from knowing that help may be available to them should they determine that they are unable to reach an agreement on their own. Planning preemptively for divorce does not have to be a grueling and difficult process.
Source: KABC-TV, “Postnuptial agreements becoming more common, signed after couples get married,” Ric Romero, Aug. 29, 2012
