An engaged couple may consider preparing a pre-nuptial agreement documenting what should happen to their assets in the event that their marriage comes to an end.

Such an agreement may be contemplated, in particular, in the following circumstances;

1)      the couple are older and have built up considerable assets prior to their proposed marriage;

2)      either of both of the parties have children of their own from previous relationships and wish to protect assets for inheritance purposes;

3)      one or both of the parties have set up a business prior to the marriage and they wish to protect the business and its assets; or

4)      one party is entering the marriage with a substantially greater capital or income than the other.

A pre-nuptial agreement can give more certainty as to the financial arrangements in the event that a couple separate and can help to protect particular assets.

George Green LLP’s Family Law department regularly advise clients as to the benefits of pre or post nuptial agreements, their legal status and their likely effect should the marriage sadly break down. If you would like further information, please contact Alex Mansfield at amansfield@georgegreen.co.uk.