Prenuptial agreements (prenups) have become increasingly common in modern marriages. According to a 2022 study by market research firm Harris Poll, 15% of married or engaged couples had signed prenups, a significant rise from the 3% recorded in 2010. Once thought to be necessary only for the wealthy, more couples across the country are realizing the practical benefits of establishing a prenuptial agreement before marriage. Stange Law Firm, a leader in family law with offices across seven states, offers insights into why prenuptial agreements are important for today’s couples.
The Focus of Stange Law Firm
At the forefront of Stange Law Firm is attorney Kirk Stange, a seasoned practitioner in family law. As the head of the second-largest family law firm in the United States, Kirk Stange has seen firsthand how contentious marital disputes can turn into lengthy legal battles. Stange Law Firm, headquartered in Clayton, Missouri, now has 25 offices across Missouri, Iowa, Illinois, Indiana, Nebraska, Oklahoma and Kansas. The firm’s extensive experience in handling divorce cases makes them a valuable resource for couples considering the benefits of a prenuptial agreement.
Kirk Stange’s work has not gone unnoticed. He has been recognized on Missouri Lawyers Media’s POWER List for Family Law, and his knowledge on prenuptial agreements culminated in his book, Prenuptial Agreements Line by Line. Through his years of experience, Kirk has developed a deep understanding of how prenuptial agreements can streamline divorce proceedings, offering couples a sense of security and protection for their assets.
Why Couples Should Consider a Prenup
One of the most significant reasons to consider a prenuptial agreement is the ability to simplify divorce proceedings. According to Kirk Stange, “A prenuptial agreement can resolve divorce issues such as property and debt division, spousal maintenance, and attorney’s fees.” In many cases, the division of assets and debts can become the most contentious part of a divorce. Disagreements over houses, vehicles, retirement funds, and other financial assets often lead to extended court battles. A well-crafted prenuptial agreement allows couples to agree on these terms in advance, avoiding the potential stress and financial burden of prolonged legal disputes.
Prenuptial agreements are not only beneficial for couples with substantial wealth. They can protect any couple from the complexities of dividing joint property and debts. Cars, real estate, and investments are common points of contention during divorce proceedings, and a prenuptial agreement allows couples to define ownership and distribution of these assets beforehand.
In cases where there are no children, a prenuptial agreement can potentially resolve all major divorce-related issues. Kirk Stange explains, “Where there are no kids, a well-crafted prenuptial agreement can fully resolve all the issues in a divorce.” This not only saves time and resources but also reduces the emotional toll often associated with lengthy divorce litigation.
The Limits of Prenuptial Agreements
While prenuptial agreements can simplify many aspects of divorce, they are not a catch-all solution. For instance, Kirk Stange notes, “Where there are kids, the only issues that would remain on the table would be child custody and child support-related issues.” Family courts retain the authority to decide matters related to child custody and support based on what is in the best interests of the children. Prenuptial agreements cannot predetermine child-related arrangements, and couples should be prepared to navigate these decisions through the court system if necessary.
However, by addressing financial matters, prenuptial agreements can allow couples to focus more on resolving child-related issues without the added pressure of dividing assets. This can provide a smoother and less stressful process for both parties.
Is a Prenup Right for Every Couple?
While the rise in prenuptial agreements suggests that more couples are considering this legal protection, it may not be the best option for everyone. Couples with little to no assets or debts may not see the necessity of a prenup, while others may be uncomfortable discussing the prospect of divorce before marriage. However, for couples with significant financial interests or those who want to avoid potential conflicts in the future, a prenuptial agreement can be a wise choice.
It’s essential for couples to discuss their goals and expectations before making a decision. Consulting an experienced family law attorney, such as those at Stange Law Firm, can provide valuable insights into the pros and cons of prenuptial agreements. An attorney can help draft a fair and enforceable agreement that protects both parties while fostering open communication about financial matters.
Conclusion
In today’s evolving marital landscape, prenuptial agreements are becoming more common, and for good reason. They offer couples a practical way to protect their assets, avoid lengthy legal battles, and reduce the stress of divorce proceedings. Stange Law Firm, under the leadership of Kirk Stange, is dedicated to helping couples navigate these important decisions with skill and compassion. Whether you’re considering a prenuptial agreement or facing a divorce, Stange Law Firm is there to provide the guidance and support needed to make informed decisions for your future.
Note: The choice of a lawyer is an important decision and should not be based solely upon advertisements. Stange Law Firm is responsible for the content with their headquarters’ office at 120 South Central Avenue, Suite 450, Clayton, Missouri 63105.
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