Should I Be Offended by a Prenup? Think Again

Why You Shouldn’t Take Offense to a Prenup Request

Prenuptial agreements are an organized and legally sound way to plan for your financial future. They provide a blueprint for your financial future with your partner. They’re a way for people in a committed partnership to have an open conversation about finances, values, and their goals for the future. Having a prenup provides transparency, security, and peace of mind to both you and your partner.

Unfortunately, for some, prenuptial agreements carry negative stigmas. Some people think they don’t need a prenup or that they indicate a lack of trust in a relationship, but this is not the case at all. Prenups are for everyone, not just the rich. They are especially helpful for higher-earning couples or those with complex financial situations.

Modern couples sign prenups for many reasons. Doing so is a responsible financial decision that ensures both of you can relax no matter what the future holds. They are a way to open up an honest discussion about financial matters that affect both of you.

Your discussion about a prenup is a way to demonstrate to each other your willingness to talk about money, responsibilities, and future goals in a mature and structured way. The conversation allows both of you to get on the same page financially, which fosters trust in your relationship going forward.

Prenups are about making sure both of you have a fair and equitable agreement that aligns with your values and plans. For example, if you or your partner has student loan debt, owns a business, or has children from a previous relationship, a prenup ensures that financial responsibilities are clearly defined. 

Prenuptial agreements also outline financial expectations for the relationship, including how you’ll handle shared expenses, savings goals, and future investments.

Setting the Tone for a Strong Financial Future

When it comes to financial matters, couples should work together to find a solution that works for both people. Your relationship is a partnership. And like every successful partnership, success is built on clear agreements and shared goals. The discussion about signing a prenup is a great way to start a conversation about priorities, financial goals, and long-term planning.

Instead of seeing the request to sign a prenup as a lack of trust, consider it a sign of a thoughtful, proactive approach to your future. Being asked to sign one or requesting that your partner do so shows that you both value honesty, respect, and a shared vision.

Any lawyer will tell you that having a prenup isn’t about doubting your relationship. It’s about protecting what you and your partner have built separately and together. Never let your pride or ego get in the way of working together for a successful future.

What If You Want to Ask Your Partner for a Prenup?

If you're nervous about asking your partner to sign a prenuptial agreement, you're not alone. Many people worry it will create tension or seem unromantic. The key is to approach the conversation with honesty and sensitivity.

It might seem uncomfortable at first, but this conversation will pay off in the long run. A prenup is about building a foundation of trust and understanding between you and your partner. If you think about it, discussing money with your partner should be a regular habit that helps you both achieve your shared goals.

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Designing a Prenup for Your Relationship

Basic prenup templates exist, but they rarely address specific needs or goals. To be adequate, prenups must be specific to you and your partner and provide both of you with peace of mind.

When designing a prenup, it’s best to hire two lawyers. This ensures each of you has guidance and also vastly reduces the risk that the document will be struck down in court. One of the most common reasons courts question prenups is because they are designed by just one lawyer, which means that the needs of one or both partners were likely not addressed completely.

Effective prenups begin with a discussion. Talk with your partner about what you want in the document. These are decisions you make together about your future and financial plan. 

As you move through the design process, the lawyers are there to help guide you by providing advice for your situation and ultimately helping you create a legally sound agreement.

Prenups include plans regarding finances and might address issues such as debt, business ownership, and savings. They do not include non-financial matters or issues related to custody. They are legally binding documents that can withstand court scrutiny.

How Neptune Can Help

Neptune is a prenup concierge that helps you save money by talking you through important prenup topics to reduce expensive lawyer time. If you’re ready to create a prenuptial agreement with your partner, Neptune can help. We help you address the correct questions and build a prenup that is customized to your needs.

Neptune also helps you save money and time by connecting you with attorneys who are familiar with the prenup process and who offer free consultations to discuss your situation. We charge a flat fee to educate you and match you with vetted lawyers. The more educated you are before moving forward with the process of designing a prenup, the better.

If you’re ready to get started or just exploring your options, chat with Neptune today. If you decide to move forward, we’ll match you with the right lawyer for your needs.