Prenuptial Agreements

Prenuptial agreements are among the more misunderstood tools that are area available to those who are planning to marry. The popular perception is that “prenups” are used by brides and grooms or same-sex couples who are unsure of each other, and therefore want to protect themselves if their worst fears about their future partners become a reality. But prenuptial agreements (also known as premarital agreements) have a much more straightforward purpose: to address issues that are important to the couple, and where the application of general California law might not be in the couple’s best interests. Thus, for example, if a house would normally be treated as the couple’s community property, a premarital agreement is the best way to ensure that the house remains one person’s separate property. Prenuptial agreements can also simplify matters where one of the partners owns or has a large financial interest in a private business. They can also be used to address issues such as spousal support, or a whole host of other issues where a customized legal solution makes sense for the couple.

Over the years, we have prepared hundreds of prenuptial agreements, and are available to draft one that addresses your particular situation. We are also asked regularly to provide a second opinion, and review an agreement that was drafted by someone else.

If you have any questions about whether a prenuptial agreement is right for you, please contact Evan T. Sussman at evan@sussmanlawfirm.com or call us at 310.288.1990.