When you are engaged and planning your wedding in Ohio, you’re likely hesitant to bring up a topic like signing a prenuptial agreement. People tend to think prenuptial agreements reflect feelings about trust or the likely success of a marriage, but this is usually not true. A prenuptial agreement does not have to be such a sensitive topic.
Studies continually show that married couples fight about money more than almost any other subject. A prenuptial agreement can actually ease some of those tensions by getting all assets and financial accounting out in the open. It can put both spouses’ minds at ease knowing exactly what they own having the assurance that they are protected if anything happens. The document can also apply to things other than money, like responsibility-sharing in the home. The agreement can easily operate as a stress reducer, instead of a prediction about the lasting potential of the marriage.
With all that in mind, however, it can still be difficult to approach the subject with your fiancé. If you think you and your future spouse would benefit from a prenuptial agreement but don’t know how to talk to your partner about it, consider the following tips:
- Don’t procrastinate the conversation.If you delay engaging in a conversation about a prenuptial agreement, you will likely not receive a positive or genuine response from your partner. Depending on how close it is to the wedding date, your partner might feel like he or she has no choice but to agree because the wedding is completely planned. He or she might feel resentful about having to make such a decision at the last minute. It is best to talk about it early to be sure you are on the same page, and your partner feels comfortable with the agreement.
- Consider and respect your partner’s feelings. When approaching the subject of a prenuptial agreement, be sure to consider and respect your partner’s feelings. You should come to the conversation as equal parties, rather than one person trying to meet the demands of the other. Talk about why you think a prenuptial agreement is a beneficial thing for both of you, rather than insisting it’s necessary for your own peace of mind. You’re far more likely to have a positive experience if you are considerate and respectful.
- Prepare yourself for the answer you don’t want.Before you go into this conversation, you absolutely need to understand whether a prenuptial agreement is non-negotiable for you. Can you still marry your partner without it? You might believe your partner will readily agree, but you need to prepare yourself for the possibility he or she will outright refuse. It is best to go in completely ready for both answers.
If you are engaged and wondering whether a prenuptial agreement is right for you or are ready to draft a prenuptial agreement with your partner, a skilled attorney can help. Contact Dawes Legal, LLC, today for a consultation about prenuptial agreements by calling (614) 733-9999.