Prenuptial Agreement Lawyers: Do You Need One?

Big decisions deserve thoughtful planning, especially when they shape your future together. A prenuptial agreement is one way couples can align on finances, priorities, and long-term goals before they tie the knot.

If you’re considering a prenup, you might be wondering: Do we need a lawyer?

In most cases, the answer is yes. A prenuptial agreement lawyer helps ensure your agreement reflects both your shared intentions and the legal requirements of your state. Not only is it wise for each partner to have their own lawyer during the process, but courts can throw out a prenup if a couple shares a lawyer.

Let’s walk through what prenup lawyers do, how much they cost, and how Neptune can help you find one that supports your journey.

What Does a Prenuptial Agreement Lawyer Do?

A prenuptial agreement lawyer helps couples navigate complex financial conversations and turn them into clear, thoughtful agreements. Their responsibilities go far beyond filling out paperwork. A good prenup lawyer will:

• Draft or review your agreement based on your individual and shared financial picture
• Ensure full financial disclosure from both partners
• Tailor the prenup to your state’s laws so it stands up in court
• Catch vague or unenforceable clauses before they cause problems
• Negotiate terms respectfully when one or both partners want to make changes

The best lawyers for prenuptial agreements make sure both parties feel heard, protected, and fairly represented. This legal clarity can set the tone for a more transparent and financially sound marriage.

Do You Need a Lawyer for a Prenuptial Agreement?

Legally, you can write a prenup without a lawyer, but it’s a risky move.

Here’s why it’s highly recommended, and often necessary, to hire two separate prenuptial agreement lawyers:

• Different states have different laws. A prenup valid in California may not hold up in New York. A lawyer ensures your contract complies with your state’s requirements for disclosure, timing, and fairness.
  
  
• Independent legal counsel is often expected. Many states, including New Jersey and Illinois, look at whether both parties had their own legal representation. Even when it’s not legally required, having separate lawyers for each partner adds a layer of protection. Without independent counsel on both sides, a court may question whether the prenup was signed voluntarily, putting its enforceability at risk.
  
  
• Clarity matters. Legal terms and financial clauses can be confusing. When each partner has the opportunity to get independent legal advice, it helps ensure the prenup reflects informed consent, so both individuals know exactly what they’re agreeing to before signing.

How to Hire a Prenup Lawyer

If the idea of finding the “right” lawyer feels overwhelming, you’re not the only one. That’s exactly why Neptune exists—to guide couples through the prenup process with clarity, confidence, and support.

We take the guesswork out of the prenup process by connecting couples with vetted prenuptial agreement lawyers and offering hands-on guidance every step of the way. Here’s how it works:

Step#1: Plan For Your Future

Neptune’s emotionally intelligent AI assistant helps you align on what’s often considered an "impossible conversation" about assets and expectations before involving lawyers or paperwork.

Step #2: Connect With Vetted Lawyers

We match each partner with experienced prenup lawyers who understand your needs, values, and your state’s specific legal landscape. You then choose which lawyer is right for you.

Couples who use Neptune are glad they did. As Keith from Massachusetts says,

"Neptune lawyers were my best interactions... they were honest and transparent on whether a prenup works for you."

Step #3: Craft & Finalize your Prenup

Neptune supports both partners through a thoughtful, balanced, and low-stress process. Attorneys handle the legal drafting and work with you and your partner on review and negotiation. Neptune coordinates the final steps, such as signatures and notarization, so everything comes together smoothly.

Whether you’re unsure where to start or already have a few terms in mind, Neptune makes hiring a prenup lawyer easier and less intimidating.

How Much Does a Prenuptial Agreement Lawyer Cost?

Let’s address the elephant in the room: yes, prenups come with a cost, but budgeting for one is simply smart financial planning.

Here’s what you can typically expect to pay a lawyer if you don’t go with Neptune:

Flat Fee: $1,000–$3,000+

Hourly Billing: $250–$800/hour

High-Complexity Cases: $5,000–$7,500+

What affects the prenup cost?

• The complexity of your financial picture (e.g., business ownership, family trusts, multiple properties)
• Your state’s legal requirements and documentation standards
• The time spent negotiating terms between attorneys
• Whether you're starting from scratch or reviewing an existing draft

How Neptune Helps You Save Time (and Money)

Partnering with Neptune comes with an advantage. We believe financial planning should be as practical as it is personal, which is why we advocate for transparent, flat-fee pricing.

Most traditional lawyers bill for every meeting, even if the session is cut short due to missing documents or incomplete financial disclosures. That’s where things can get unexpectedly expensive.

With Neptune’s prenup concierge service, you walk in prepared. Our team educates you on the prenup process in advance and helps you gather everything you need for a productive, cost-efficient experience. No confusion, no surprises—just clarity and support.

In fact, 95% of couples report feeling more confident, respected, and prepared after using Neptune.

Are you ready to get started? Start the conversation with Neptune today.