Prenuptial agreements play an important role in providing peace of mind for both parties leading up to their wedding day. Unfortunately, prenuptial agreements do not always provide the protection that they should.
Understanding the red flags of a problematic prenuptial agreement can help you protect your interests.
Is the agreement unbalanced?
A prenuptial agreement should represent both of your interests in the marriage equally. If the text of the agreement seems unfairly weighted toward your significant other, you should consider your rights before you sign.
Is your significant other pressuring you?
Facing any kind of pressure from your significant other or their family is another cause for concern. When you sign a prenuptial agreement, that signature should result from your own willing participation, not coercion from anyone else.
Any pressure to sign the agreement without taking time to consider it is problematic. Your significant other should give you enough time to read the agreement and think it over. When the agreement is fair, equitable and reasonable, you should not face any pressure.
Do you have doubts about the content?
By the time most relationships reach the level of commitment of marriage, there should be plenty of time for you to become familiar with each other’s financial situations, family and backgrounds. When it seems that assets are missing from the prenuptial agreement you receive, it is in your best interest not to sign it.
The more you understand about prenuptial agreements, the easier it is to advocate for your rights. Remember that marriage is a commitment between two families. The agreement you sign should reflect that equitably.