Tips For Tying the Knot: Best Wedding Gift May Be a Candid Discussion

As a couple anticipates marriage, they spend considerable time planning for the wedding day and dreaming of their future. But many fail to realize that they also need a candid discussion of how to merge their economic as well as their emotional lives.

Among the best gifts the bride and groom can receive is a thorough and objective assessment of their financial and personal goals. This may or may not include a prenuptial agreement, or “prenup” for short. The words alone can evoke powerful emotions: It seems inconsistent to say, “I love you; I want to spend the rest of my life with you, and, oh, by the way, would you mind signing this prenuptial agreement?” In fact, the process can be an opportunity to stimulate a healthy conversation about lifestyle, roles, and financial obligations.

A delicate balance exists between preserving a good relationship and protecting yourself legally in the event of a divorce. That’s why it is important to work with a family lawyer who has extensive experience in defining the financial results desired while preserving a loving relationship.

Oftentimes, in cases where family wealth or business ownership is involved, an attorney can help protect assets owned before marriage. A prenup may not be necessary. More often it is working professionals who should consider such an agreement. This is especially true if they anticipate having children with one spouse staying home to raise them.