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.