Do You Need a Prenup in Pennsylvania? What Couples Should Know

A prenuptial agreement can help couples make clear financial decisions before marriage. While many people think prenups are only for wealthy individuals, they can be useful for business owners, professionals, parents, and anyone entering marriage with assets, debt, or future financial concerns.

In Pennsylvania, prenuptial agreements are generally enforceable when they are properly prepared, entered into voluntarily, and based on honest financial disclosure.

If you are planning to get married, a prenup can help protect property, reduce future disputes, and give both spouses a clearer understanding of their financial rights and responsibilities.

Quick Answer: Do You Need a Prenup in Pennsylvania?

You may need a prenup in Pennsylvania if you want to protect premarital assets, a business, real estate, retirement accounts, family inheritances, or children from a prior relationship.

A prenup can also help define how property, debt, and support issues will be handled if the marriage ends in divorce.

What Is a Prenuptial Agreement?

A prenuptial agreement, often called a prenup, is a written contract signed before marriage. It allows future spouses to decide how certain financial issues will be handled during the marriage or if the marriage ends.

A prenup can address property rights, debt responsibility, business ownership, inheritance protection, and in some cases spousal support or alimony.

What Can a Prenup Protect?

A Pennsylvania prenup can help protect many types of assets and financial interests, including:

• Real estate owned before marriage
• Businesses and professional practices
• Investment accounts
• Retirement accounts
• Family inheritances
• Trust interests
• Personal savings
• Children from a prior relationship
• Responsibility for premarital debt

The goal is not always to keep everything separate. Many couples use prenups to create fair expectations and reduce uncertainty.

Are Prenups Enforceable in Pennsylvania?

Yes. Prenuptial agreements are generally enforceable in Pennsylvania when they meet legal requirements.

To improve enforceability, both parties should enter the agreement voluntarily, disclose their finances honestly, and have enough time to review the agreement before the wedding.

Each person should also consider having independent legal counsel before signing.

Who Should Consider a Prenup?

A prenup may be especially helpful if one or both spouses:

• Own a business
• Own real estate
• Have significant savings or investments
• Expect to receive an inheritance
• Have children from a previous relationship
• Have substantial student loans or other debt
• Earn significantly more than the other spouse
• Want to protect family-owned property

Even couples with modest assets may benefit from a prenup if they want financial clarity before marriage.

Can a Prenup Protect a Business?

Yes. A prenup can be especially valuable for business owners.

Without a prenup, business interests acquired or increased in value during the marriage may become a major issue in divorce. A prenup can clarify whether the business remains separate property, how future growth will be treated, and whether one spouse may receive compensation for contributions to the business.

Can a Prenup Protect an Inheritance?

Yes. A prenup can help protect inherited assets and family wealth.

Although inheritances are often treated separately from marital property, problems can arise when inherited money is deposited into joint accounts, used for marital expenses, or invested in jointly owned property.

A prenup can reduce confusion by clearly stating how inherited property should be handled.

Can a Prenup Cover Debt?

Yes. Prenups can address how debt will be treated during the marriage or in the event of divorce.

This can be important when one spouse enters the marriage with student loans, credit card debt, business debt, tax obligations, or other liabilities.

A prenup can help prevent one spouse from being unfairly burdened by debt that belonged to the other spouse before the marriage.

Can a Prenup Address Alimony?

In Pennsylvania, a prenup may address spousal support or alimony rights, depending on the language of the agreement and the circumstances.

Because support provisions can have serious long-term consequences, both spouses should carefully review these terms with an attorney before signing.

When Should You Get a Prenup?

Couples should start the prenup process well before the wedding date.

Waiting until the last minute can create unnecessary pressure and may raise questions about whether both parties had enough time to review the agreement voluntarily.

Ideally, couples should begin discussing a prenup several months before the wedding.

What Happens If You Do Not Have a Prenup?

If you do not have a prenup and later divorce, Pennsylvania’s equitable distribution rules will apply.

That means a court may divide marital property and debt based on what it considers fair under the circumstances. This may include reviewing income, earning capacity, contributions to the marriage, future financial needs, and other factors.

Prenup vs. Postnup: What Is the Difference?

A prenup is signed before marriage. A postnuptial agreement, or postnup, is signed after marriage.

Both agreements can address financial rights and property issues, but the timing is different. Couples who are already married and want to clarify financial expectations may consider a postnup instead.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is a prenup only for wealthy people?

No. Prenups can benefit anyone who wants clarity about property, debt, business interests, inheritance rights, or financial expectations before marriage.

Can a prenup be challenged in Pennsylvania?

Yes. A spouse may challenge a prenup if there are concerns about fraud, coercion, lack of disclosure, or other legal issues.

Should both people have separate lawyers?

It is strongly recommended. Separate attorneys can help ensure both parties understand the agreement and enter it voluntarily.

Can a prenup decide child custody or child support?

No. Courts decide child custody and child support based on the child’s best interests and applicable law at the time of the dispute.

Can we change a prenup after marriage?

Yes. Spouses may be able to modify or replace a prenup with a written postnuptial agreement.

Protecting Your Future Before Marriage

A prenuptial agreement is not about expecting a marriage to fail. It is about planning responsibly, protecting important assets, and reducing uncertainty.

At The Skeen Firm, we help Pennsylvania clients prepare thoughtful prenuptial and postnuptial agreements tailored to their financial goals and family circumstances.

If you are considering a prenup before marriage, contact our office to schedule a consultation.

*Disclaimer: This article is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Results and fee structures vary by matter and are subject to a written agreement.

Ohio Prenuptial Agreements

Ohio Prenuptial Agreements: What to Know Before You Get Married

If you’re planning to get married in Ohio, a prenuptial agreement can help clarify financial expectations and protect both partners.

An Ohio prenuptial agreement is a contract signed before marriage that outlines how assets, debts, and financial responsibilities will be handled if the marriage ends.

---

Ohio Prenup Requirements

Ohio courts typically look at whether:

• The agreement was entered into voluntarily
• Assets and debts were fully disclosed
• Both parties understood the terms

Courts may also consider whether each party had the opportunity to consult independent legal counsel.

---

Why Ohio Couples Consider Prenups

Prenuptial agreements can be especially helpful for couples who:

• Own real estate or significant assets
• Have children from prior relationships
• Own or expect to grow a business
• Want to reduce uncertainty and protect both spouses

Starting the process early allows time for review, discussion, and informed decision-making.

---

Schedule an Ohio Prenup Discovery Call

If you’re getting married in Ohio and considering a prenuptial agreement, a discovery call can help you understand your rights and options.

Schedule a confidential discovery call

Planning ahead helps protect your future.

*Disclaimer: The advice provided is for informational purposes and is not intended as legal advice.  It should not be relied on, nor construed as creating an attorney-client relationship.

Pennsylvania Prenuptial Agreements | PA Prenup Lawyer

Pennsylvania Prenuptial Agreements: What Engaged Couples Should Know

If you’re planning to get married in Pennsylvania, a prenuptial agreement can be an important part of preparing for your future together—especially if you own property, have significant assets, or run a business.

A Pennsylvania prenuptial agreement is a written contract signed before marriage that outlines how certain financial matters will be handled if the marriage ends due to divorce or death.

---

How Prenuptial Agreements Work in Pennsylvania

Pennsylvania courts generally enforce prenuptial agreements when:

• The agreement is in writing and signed by both parties
• Each party entered into the agreement voluntarily
• There was full and fair disclosure of assets and debts

Pennsylvania does not require a prenup to be “fair” at the time of divorce. Because of this, informed consent and transparency at the time of signing are critical.

---

Why Couples in Pennsylvania Choose Prenups

Couples often consider prenuptial agreements to:

• Protect premarital assets or inheritances
• Address business ownership or professional practices
• Clarify responsibility for debts
• Reduce uncertainty and potential conflict in the future

Starting the conversation early—well before the wedding—helps avoid unnecessary pressure and improves enforceability.

---

Schedule a Prenup Discovery Call

If you’re considering a prenuptial agreement in Pennsylvania, a discovery call can help you understand your options, timing, and next steps.

Schedule a confidential discovery call

Planning ahead allows you to enter marriage with clarity and confidence.

*Disclaimer: The advice provided is for informational purposes and is not intended as legal advice.  It should not be relied on, nor construed as creating an attorney-client relationship.

Valentine’s Day Prenups: Planning for Marriage in Pennsylvania, West Virginia & Ohio

Valentine’s Day Prenups: Planning for Marriage in Pennsylvania, West Virginia & Ohio

Valentine’s Day is about love, commitment, and building a future together. If you’re engaged or planning to get married, this season is also an ideal time to talk about something practical—and surprisingly meaningful: a prenuptial agreement.

A prenup isn’t about planning for divorce. It’s about protecting both partners, setting expectations, and entering marriage with clarity and trust.

---

What Is a Prenuptial Agreement?

A prenuptial agreement, or prenup, is a written contract signed before marriage that outlines how certain financial matters will be handled if the marriage ends due to divorce or death.

A prenup can:

• Protect premarital assets and inheritances
• Address businesses, investments, or professional practices
• Clarify responsibility for debts
• Reduce future conflict and litigation

Prenups are commonly used by couples who want transparency, not control.

---

Why Valentine’s Day Is a Smart Time to Talk About a Prenup

While prenups aren’t traditionally romantic, timing matters. Valentine’s Day works because couples are already focused on their shared future.

Starting early helps:

• Avoid last-minute pressure before the wedding
• Encourage open, honest conversations about finances
• Strengthen trust through transparency

A prenup is most effective when it’s discussed calmly and collaboratively—not rushed.

---

Prenuptial Agreements in Pennsylvania, West Virginia & Ohio

Prenups are enforceable in Pennsylvania, West Virginia, and Ohio, but each state has its own legal requirements. Proper drafting and timing are essential.

Prenups in Pennsylvania

Pennsylvania courts generally enforce prenuptial agreements if:

• The agreement is in writing and signed
• Both parties entered into it voluntarily
• There was full and fair financial disclosure

Pennsylvania does not require prenups to be “fair” at the time of divorce, which makes informed consent especially important.

Prenups in West Virginia

West Virginia recognizes prenups when:

• Both parties fully disclose assets and debts
• Neither party was pressured to sign
• The agreement is not unconscionable

Signing too close to the wedding date can create problems, so early planning is key.

Prenups in Ohio

Ohio prenuptial agreements are valid if:

• The agreement was entered into freely
• Financial disclosure was complete
• Both parties understood the terms

Ohio courts often consider whether each party had the opportunity to consult independent legal counsel.

---

What Makes a Strong Prenuptial Agreement?

The most effective prenups are:

• Discussed well before the wedding
• Transparent and balanced
• Tailored to the couple’s specific circumstances
• Drafted with legal guidance

A prenup should protect both partners, not favor one at the expense of the other.

---

Planning Ahead Is an Act of Love

Marriage is a legal and financial partnership as well as an emotional one. A prenuptial agreement helps couples enter marriage with clarity, confidence, and mutual respect.

This Valentine’s Day, planning ahead may be the most meaningful gift you give each other.

---

Schedule a Prenup Discovery Call

If you’re considering a prenuptial agreement in Pennsylvania, West Virginia, or Ohio, a discovery call can help you understand your options, timing, and next steps.

You don’t need to have everything figured out to get started.

Schedule a confidential discovery call here.

Planning for your future together starts with a conversation.

*Disclaimer: The advice provided is for informational purposes and is not intended as legal advice.  It should not be relied on, nor construed as creating an attorney-client relationship.

Holiday Engagement Season: Why a Prenup Might Be the Best Gift You Give Each Other

Holiday Engagement Season: Why a Prenup Might Be the Best Gift You Give Each Other

A Practical Guide for Engaged Couples in Pennsylvania & West Virginia

The holiday season brings twinkling lights, family gatherings, and—if you're among the many couples saying “yes!” this time of year—joyous new engagements. As you start dreaming about venues, menus, and color palettes, there’s one more important item worth adding to your planning list: a prenuptial agreement.

Before you picture an uncomfortable conversation or a cold legal document wrapped in tinsel, know this—the modern prenup is less about “protecting assets from each other” and more about protecting your future together. Think of it as a practical, thoughtful gift that sets the foundation for a strong marriage.

Here’s what engaged couples in Pennsylvania and West Virginia should know about holiday engagements and prenups.

Why Prenups Are Becoming a Holiday Engagement Essential

1. Prenups Encourage Healthy Financial Conversations

The holidays are filled with hope and excitement—the perfect energy for planning your life together. A prenuptial agreement opens the door for honest conversations about income, spending, debt, and future goals. Couples who communicate openly about money from the start often build stronger, more secure relationships.

2. Prenups Protect Both Partners, Not Just One

In Pennsylvania and West Virginia, prenuptial agreements allow couples to define:

• How to handle premarital property
• What happens to individual vs. marital assets
• How to address existing debts (like student loans or credit cards)
• Whether spousal support (alimony) will apply in the future

A well-written agreement ensures fairness and clarity—no surprises later if life changes.

3. Prenups Reduce Stress If Life Takes an Unexpected Turn

No one walks down the aisle expecting divorce. But just like insurance, a prenup provides peace of mind. Should the unexpected happen, you’ll already have a plan in place—minimizing conflict, uncertainty, and costly litigation.

Prenups in Pennsylvania vs. West Virginia: What Engaged Couples Should Know

Prenuptial Agreements in Pennsylvania

In Pennsylvania, courts generally uphold prenuptial agreements unless there was fraud, duress, or a failure to provide full financial disclosure. A Pennsylvania prenup can:

• Address division of property if the marriage ends
• Clarify rights to premarital and marital assets
• Set expectations around spousal support (alimony)

Child-related terms, like custody or child support, cannot be permanently predetermined in a prenup. The court will always look to the best interests of the child at the time of separation.

The key in Pennsylvania is transparency and fairness. Both partners should understand the agreement and have time to review it—ideally with their own attorneys.

Prenuptial Agreements in West Virginia

West Virginia follows the Uniform Premarital Agreement Act (UPAA), which gives a clear legal framework for prenuptial agreements. Like Pennsylvania, West Virginia requires:

• Voluntary signatures by both partners
• Fair and reasonable financial disclosure
• No unconscionable (extremely unfair) terms at the time of signing

Courts in West Virginia tend to uphold prenups that are entered into openly and fairly. A carefully drafted agreement can provide stability and reduce uncertainty if the marriage later ends.

Bottom line for PA & WV couples: In both states, a thoughtfully prepared prenuptial agreement can provide clarity, protection, and peace of mind as you enter marriage.

Why the Holiday Season Is the Perfect Time to Talk About a Prenup

If you’re newly engaged, you’re likely already talking about your future—where you’ll live, how you’ll blend finances, and what you want out of life together. Introducing a prenup naturally fits into these long-term planning conversations.

Weddings come with timelines and deadlines, and the same is true for prenups. Starting early:

• Avoids any appearance of pressure or last-minute stress
• Gives each partner time to review the terms with a lawyer
• Makes it more likely your agreement will be upheld by a court

For couples in Pennsylvania and West Virginia who got engaged over the holidays, the months before the wedding are an ideal window to draft and finalize a prenuptial agreement.

How to Bring Up the Prenup Without Ruining the Holiday Magic

Talking about a prenup doesn’t have to be awkward or unromantic. Here are a few gentle ways to start the conversation:

• “I want us to start our marriage with total transparency—can we talk about a prenup?”
• “We’re making so many big decisions; maybe we should talk about protecting each other financially too.”
• “I’d love to put a plan in place so we’re both secure no matter what life brings.”

Most partners appreciate clarity and fairness, especially when the conversation is framed as mutual protection, not a lack of trust.

Give Yourselves the Gift of Peace of Mind

A prenup isn’t about planning for the worst—it’s about intentionally building the best foundation for your life together. This holiday season, consider making space for this important step alongside the engagement photos, cake tastings, and venue tours.

Whether you're in Pennsylvania or West Virginia, The Skeen Firm helps couples create prenuptial agreements that are fair, transparent, and tailored to their unique relationship. Our mission, “Everyday Legal Advice,” means we focus on making complex issues clear and approachable for real people with real lives.

Ready to Start the Conversation?

If you got engaged this holiday season in Pennsylvania or West Virginia and are wondering whether a prenup makes sense for you, we’re here to help.

Book a discovery call today to speak with a family law attorney who understands both the legal and emotional sides of planning your future together.

Let The Skeen Firm help you begin your marriage with clarity, confidence, and peace of mind.

*Disclaimer: The advice provided is for informational purposes and is not intended as legal advice.  It should not be relied on, nor construed as creating an attorney-client relationship.

Do You Need a Prenup in West Virginia or Pennsylvania? Here’s What to Know

When couples are planning a wedding, the last thing they usually want to talk about is a prenup. But prenuptial agreements—also called “premarital agreements”—are not about planning for divorce. They are about protecting your future, your family, and the assets you’ve worked hard to build.

At The Skeen Firm, we help professionals, business owners, and families in West Virginia and Pennsylvania create prenups that fit their needs and comply with state law. If you are thinking about a prenup, here’s what you should know.

What Is a Prenup?

A prenuptial agreement is a written contract signed before marriage that sets out how certain financial matters will be handled if the marriage ends through divorce or death.

It can cover:

• Division of property and assets

• Business ownership interests

• Inheritance and estate rights

• Spousal support or waiver of alimony

• Protection from a partner’s debt

Why Consider a Prenup in WV or PA?

• Protect family businesses or professional practices – If you own a company, law firm, medical practice, or family business, a prenup can keep ownership stable.

• Clarify financial rights and expectations – Prevents future disputes by putting decisions in writing now.

• Safeguard children from prior relationships – Ensures assets go to your children as intended.

• Reduce litigation stress – A clear prenup can minimize costly court battles later.

Prenups in West Virginia

West Virginia courts will generally enforce a prenup if:

• It was entered into voluntarily.

• Both parties fully disclosed their assets and debts.

• The agreement is not unconscionable (grossly unfair).

Prenups here can be especially important for families with property, farms, or businesses passed down through generations.

Prenups in Pennsylvania

Pennsylvania law also enforces prenups if they are entered into voluntarily and with full disclosure. A unique aspect of PA law is its approach to “fairness”: as long as the agreement was knowingly signed, the court usually upholds it—even if it feels one-sided later.

Do You Really Need a Lawyer for a Prenup?

Yes. To protect both partners and ensure the document will hold up in court, each person should have their own attorney review the agreement. At The Skeen Firm, we work with clients in Southwestern Pennsylvania and Northern West Virginia to draft, negotiate, and finalize strong prenups.

The Bottom Line

A prenup isn’t about mistrust—it’s about planning wisely. Whether you are a business owner, a professional with significant income, or simply want to protect your family’s future, a prenup can give you peace of mind.

Contact The Skeen Firm today to schedule a Discovery Call and learn how we can help protect what matters most to you in PA and WV.

*Disclaimer: The advice provided is for informational purposes and is not intended as legal advice.  It should not be relied on, nor construed as creating an attorney-client relationship.

Beyoncé and Jay-Z’s Prenuptial Agreement: Pros, Cons, and Insights Under Pennsylvania Law

Prenuptial agreements, commonly known as prenups, are contracts signed by couples before marriage that outline the division of assets and financial responsibilities in the event of divorce or death. For high-profile couples like Beyoncé and Jay-Z, these agreements are crucial not only for protecting individual and joint wealth but also for setting clear expectations within their marriage. Comparing their prenuptial agreement with how similar contracts are viewed under Pennsylvania law offers interesting insights into the pros and cons of such arrangements.

The Power Couple’s Empire

Beyoncé Knowles-Carter and Shawn “Jay-Z” Carter are two of the most successful figures in the entertainment industry. Beyoncé is a globally celebrated singer, songwriter, and actress, while Jay-Z is a legendary rapper, music producer, and business mogul. Together, they have built an empire spanning music, fashion, real estate, and investments.

Given their combined net worth—which reportedly exceeds a billion dollars—it’s no surprise that they opted for a prenuptial agreement to protect their substantial assets and professional interests.

Key Clauses in Their Prenuptial Agreement

Though the couple has kept the exact terms of their prenup private, several reported provisions highlight its unique features:

1.     Child Compensation Clause: Beyoncé reportedly receives $5 million for each child the couple has together. This clause acknowledges the potential career interruptions Beyoncé may face due to childbirth and compensates for any associated financial impact.

2.     Duration-Based Financial Incentives: In the event of a divorce, Beyoncé would reportedly receive $10 million if the marriage lasted fewer than two years. For each additional year of marriage, she would receive an extra $1 million, up to a maximum of 15 years.

3.     Asset Separation: The agreement ensures that assets acquired before their marriage remain separate. This provision is common in high-profile prenuptial agreements, as it protects each party’s premarital wealth.

These clauses illustrate a strategic approach to safeguarding individual and joint interests while acknowledging the dynamic nature of their relationship.

Evolving Financial Arrangements

Following personal challenges and revelations highlighted during Beyoncé’s groundbreaking visual album Lemonade and Jay-Z’s introspective album 4:44, the couple reportedly revisited their financial arrangements. They are said to have established a postnuptial agreement to reflect changes in their financial and personal lives.

This evolution underscores an important point: prenuptial agreements are not static documents. Couples can revisit and amend their agreements to better reflect their evolving circumstances.

Prenups Under Pennsylvania Law

In Pennsylvania, prenuptial agreements are legally enforceable as long as they meet specific criteria. The state treats prenups similarly to standard contracts and emphasizes fairness, transparency, and voluntary consent.

Key requirements include:

1.     Full Financial Disclosure: Both parties must fully disclose their financial situations, including assets, liabilities, and income.

2.     Voluntary Consent: The agreement must be entered into without coercion or duress.

3.     Fairness: Courts may not enforce agreements deemed unconscionable or grossly unfair.

4.     Legal Representation: While not mandatory, it is advisable for both parties to have independent legal counsel to ensure that the terms are understood and fairly negotiated.

Unlike some states, Pennsylvania does not follow the Uniform Premarital Agreement Act (UPAA) but instead relies on its own legal precedents.

Pros of Beyoncé and Jay-Z’s Prenuptial Agreement Compared to Pennsylvania Law

1.     Tailored Clauses: The couple’s prenup includes customized provisions, such as child compensation and duration-based incentives, which are rare but permissible under Pennsylvania law. This level of customization can be highly beneficial when addressing unique circumstances.

2.     Asset Protection: Both their prenup and Pennsylvania law emphasize the protection of premarital assets. By clearly delineating ownership, couples can avoid lengthy disputes.

3.     Flexibility: The reported postnuptial agreement demonstrates that such contracts can evolve. Pennsylvania law similarly allows for amendments to prenups if both parties agree.

4.     Reduced Conflict: Clear financial arrangements help reduce potential conflicts during divorce, a benefit recognized both in high-profile agreements and Pennsylvania legal practice.

Cons of Beyoncé and Jay-Z’s Prenup Compared to Pennsylvania Law

1.     Public Perception: High-profile prenups like Beyoncé and Jay-Z’s can attract media scrutiny. In Pennsylvania, while prenups are private contracts, a contentious divorce could still bring unwanted attention to the couple’s financial arrangements.

2.     Potential for Unfairness: Pennsylvania courts scrutinize agreements for fairness. If a clause, such as a child compensation payment, were seen as inequitable or coercive, it could be challenged.

3.     Complexity of Future Earnings: For celebrities, projecting future earnings is challenging. While Pennsylvania allows for future earnings clauses, they must be carefully drafted to avoid disputes.

4.     Enforcement Challenges: Even with a well-drafted prenup, legal challenges can arise if one party claims they were not fully informed or coerced into signing.

A Model for Modern Relationships

Beyoncé and Jay-Z’s prenuptial and postnuptial agreements offer valuable lessons for all couples, not just celebrities. They demonstrate the importance of thoughtful financial planning, open communication, and adaptability.

In Pennsylvania, couples considering a prenuptial agreement should seek legal advice to ensure that their contract complies with state laws and effectively addresses their needs. Whether you have a global empire or modest assets, the principles of transparency, fairness, and mutual respect remain key to building a strong financial foundation for marriage.

Conclusion

Beyoncé and Jay-Z’s approach to financial planning highlights the benefits of prenuptial agreements while acknowledging their potential challenges. By understanding how their agreement compares to Pennsylvania law, couples can gain insights into best practices for protecting their financial future. Thoughtful planning and clear communication can help pave the way for a lasting and harmonious partnership.

*Disclaimer: this article is for informational purposes only. It is not providing legal advice. It does not create an attorney-client relationship.

Protect Yourself (and Your Property) with a Prenup

            If you listened to hip-hop music or pop radio in the mid-to-late 2000s, you no doubt heard Kanye West’s song “Gold Digger,” in which he hollers, “We want prenup. We want prenup!”

What exactly is a prenup?  A prenuptial agreement, sometimes called a “prenup,” is an agreement between future spouses regarding their marriage.  It may spell out how to address property and assets, as well as support obligations, in the event of the dissolution of their marriage.  When a marriage ends, the property and assets owned by both spouses, individually or jointly, comprise the marital estate.  The Court then considers a list of 11 factors in determining how to distribute the marital estate between the spouses and will also decide whether the property is non-marital.

The parties will likely engage in discovery to develop a clear understanding of what each spouse owns.  The discovery process may be lengthy, time-consuming, and costly.  When parties go through the discovery process and an equitable distribution hearing, they may risk depleting a portion of their assets on attorney and expert fees.

On top of discovery and equitable distribution, a divorcing couple is likely to encounter a claim for spousal support and/or alimony. Litigating these claims adds to the overall cost of a divorce and typically increases the level of discord between the parties.

This unnecessary financial cost and emotional toll of litigation can be avoided by entering into a prenup which specifies the assets and debts of each spouse as they enter the marriage, which assets the couple wishes to split should they divorce, and on what percentage, whether the spouses will be jointly responsible for individual debts, and any support one party may pay to the other or maybe that both spouses are waiving their right to file for support.

So, what makes a prenup valid in Pennsylvania?

 The answer is surprisingly simple, your prenup must be in writing and signed by both parties. So please take all the content discussed above, get them in writing, and ensure both parties sign. Do you need an attorney for this? The attorneys in us say yes, but it can be a DIY, depending on your situation. If you hire an attorney, the best thing you can do is hire separate counsel to negotiate the best agreement possible.

Now, sure, the thought is, but attorneys are expensive. So, just how much does a prenup cost? Well, that depends. However, expect to pay around $1,5000 per party if the assets, finances, and other factors are simple. Again, this process is situation-driven.

Prenuptial agreements are highly customizable and should be tailored to your needs.  If you’re already married, you can still protect yourself by negotiating a postnuptial agreement with your spouse, but that is a topic for another day.  The Skeen Firm offers Everyday Legal Advice and welcomes the opportunity to discuss a prenuptial or postnuptial agreement with you.