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Prenuptial Agreements in Columbus, Ohio – An Attorney’s Guidance

As a prenup attorney in Columbus, I understand that discussing a prenuptial agreement before marriage can feel uncomfortable. However, working with a prenuptial lawyer in Columbus provides crucial legal protection for both spouses’ interests. A well-drafted prenup outlines how assets, debts, and other financial matters will be handled if the marriage ends, giving you control instead of leaving these decisions to a court.

Why Work With a Prenuptial Attorney in Columbus?

A prenup is not a sign of distrust – it’s a responsible step for couples entering a legal contract like marriage. My role as a prenuptial lawyer in Columbus is to ensure the agreement is fair and protects both parties’ rights in the event of a divorce. I guide clients through important considerations like:

  • Preserving business interests and inheritances
  • Protecting children from previous relationships
  • Planning for potential scenarios like one spouse being a stay-at-home parent
  • Clarifying financial rights and responsibilities

The Prenup Process With a Columbus Prenuptial Attorney

As an experienced prenup attorney Columbus couples trust, I recommend starting the prenup process well before your wedding date. A rushed agreement increases risks of it being deemed invalid or unconscionable.

We’ll have open discussions about your unique situation, long-term plans, and priorities for the agreement. My role is to draft an airtight prenuptial agreement that demonstrates full financial disclosure and is free from coercion, so it can withstand legal scrutiny.

Start Planning With an Expert Columbus Prenup Lawyer

Discussing a prenup with your partner and consulting a Columbus prenuptial attorney shows you’re approaching this commitment with prudence. A thorough prenup provides financial certainty as you begin your marriage.

If you need a prenup attorney near Columbus, I welcome you to schedule a consultation. As a skilled and compassionate prenup lawyer Columbus OH respects, I’ll ensure you enter this new chapter with strong legal protections in place.

Frequently asked questions

Can I sign a prenuptial agreement after I am married?

No.  In Ohio, you must sign a prenuptial agreement before you are married.  You must sign it well in advance of your wedding date to ensure that it will be legally enforceable.

Is it a bad sign to be talking about getting divorced before we are even married? I’m worried that if I ask for a prenup, my fiancé may think I do not trust them.

Absolutely not.  A prenuptial agreement can ensure you do not lose your financial security in case you unexpectedly divorce.  A prenup does not mean that you do not love or trust your partner.  In fact, a prenup ensures both you and your fiancé are protected if you ever divorce by establishing your legal rights and expectations up front.  While you certainly expect your marriage to be successful, it doesn’t hurt to have a prenuptial agreement just in case.  You must sign a prenuptial agreement before you are married, because if you find yourself in a situation where you realize you need one, it will be too late.

Can you have only one attorney for a prenuptial agreement? My fiancé and I have an agreement, we just need a lawyer to draft the paperwork. Can you do this?

Yes, but an attorney can only provide legal advice to one person, not both parties.  I can draft the paperwork for both you and your fiancé.  If you already have an agreement, it should not be an issue if you do not both have an attorney.  However, if you have a disagreement over the terms in the prenup, I can only advise and represent one person.  The person I do not represent may hire their own attorney to advise and represent them.  Some couples will hire me to draft the prenuptial agreement, and the person I do not represent will hire their own attorney simply to review the prenuptial agreement and advise them before they sign it.

My fiancé’s attorney drafted a prenuptial agreement, and I just want you to review it to let me know if there is anything I should be concerned about. Is this possible?

Yes.  I can review a prenuptial agreement drafted by another attorney and provide legal advice regarding your rights and options.  I will answer your questions and ensure you feel confident that your agreement is accurately reflected in the document you sign.  After our meeting, you may decide that you are comfortable with proceeding on your own without further representation, or you may decide to retain me to negotiate on your behalf if needed.

How long does it take to complete a prenup agreement?

The time it takes to complete a prenuptial agreement depends on how long it takes you and your fiancé to reach an agreement.  You want to begin the process early so that you can sign your prenup well in advance of your wedding date.  These typically take several weeks to complete.  If you sign your prenup the day of your wedding or close to it, it may not be legally enforceable.  Courts have found that prenuptial agreements signed on the day of a wedding or extremely close to a wedding may have been signed under duress and are not legally enforceable.  Give yourself plenty of time to negotiate and finalize the terms of your prenuptial agreement so you can enjoy your wedding planning and begin your marriage with confidence.

The material on this webpage has been prepared by Lewis Legal Solutions for informational purposes only and should not be construed as legal advice or legal opinion on any specific matter.  No attorney-client relationship is implied or created by the information found on this website.  Lewis Legal Solutions practices law within the state of Ohio.  Individuals should seek the advice of legal counsel licensed in their state.