Hackensack Pre and Post Nuptial Agreement Attorneys
While most people are reluctant to think of marriage in contractual terms, a pre-nuptial or post-nuptial agreement is an effective means for protecting yourself and your children both financially and legally. While pre- and post-nuptial agreements are subject to final approval by the court, both provide couples with a measure of security important in today's uncertain world.
At the law office of Cowen & Jacobs, our family law attorneys evaluate our client's financial situation, discussing means for protecting retirement and 401k savings, property rights, trust funds, and closely held businesses. We draft agreements using language we know will be upheld by the court, explaining how certain clauses regarding mediation can protect you in the future should your spouse contest your divorce or any of its terms.
Given the importance of a pre- or post-nuptial agreement, both parties should have at least six to eight weeks to evaluate its terms and understand what it is they are signing. Get the information you need to protect yourself and your family -- contact family law attorneys Cowen & Jacobs today for more information.
What is Covered in a Pre- or Post-Nuptial Agreement?
Typically, a pre- or post-nuptial agreement specifies the rights and obligations of each person with respect to the following:
- Bank accounts
- Investments
- Property
- Retirement funds
- Spousal support
- Division of debt
- Death benefits
- Estate planning - wills, trusts, etc.
- Determination of jurisdiction
- Required mediation in case of disagreement
What cannot be determined by a Premarital or Post-Divorce Agreement
Child support cannot be determined or affected by a pre- or post-nuptial agreement. Additionally, health care coverage and life insurance costs cannot be relinquished or re-assigned according to the terms of a premarital or post-divorce agreement. The obligation to pay child support is a function of a child's right to care and maintenance and is not a punitive or restorative measure intended to favor one parent or the other.
Additionally, child custody and visitation issues are contingent upon what the court believes to be in the best interests of a child. As such, any determination in regard to visitation or custody will be made at the time of divorce and cannot be pre-determined.
Contact Cowen & Jacobs Today
Premarital agreements are an important means of protecting what you bring into a marriage. Especially if you have children from a previous marriage, a premarital or post-divorce agreement can ensure you aren't saddled with debt that isn't yours or deprived of hard earned assets.
To schedule an appointment to discuss how we can help you, contact premarital agreement lawyers at the law office of Cowen & Jacobs today.
