How to Talk About a Prenup Without Getting Dumped

It may come as a surprise when you find out this fact: Prenups are on the rise. According to the American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers, more than half of attorneys have seen an increase in the number of prenuptial agreements being sought. Those looking to have them written? Millennials.
Just because prenups are becoming more popular doesn’t mean they are any easier to discuss. If you are considering asking your partner to sign one of these contracts before you get married and you want to avoid being dumped, here are the best ways to broach the topic.

1. Ask Early

The last thing you want to do is tell your partner you want a prenup the week before your wedding takes place. If you have any inkling that the person you are dating may be “the one,” have the talk before the ring is purchased. You can gauge your partner’s reaction and, if you are firmly for and they are firmly against, you can move on without having spent too much time developing the relationship.

2. Know It Will Be Tense and Awkward

Prepare yourself: The conversation you are about to have is likely going to be tense, and it is probably going to be awkward. Express your wishes and tell your partner why you want a prenup. You don’t want one because it’s the cool thing to do. Maybe your parents went through a terrible divorce. Perhaps your family is well off and it’s something you’ve always known would protect your finances. No matter what the reason, be honest.

3. Talk About the Future

No one enters a marriage assuming they will get divorced, but it does happen. Discuss the fact that a prenup will help keep a divorce clean and uncomplicated. Should the two of your decide to end your marriage, you’ve already agreed on how most things, if not all, will be split.

4. It’s Not About the Wealthy

There is a misconception that the only people protected by a prenup are those who are wealthy. The person who earns less can be protected as well. A person who earns less than the other may be concerned about finances should the marriage end. A prenup is a good way to ensure that both parties will be taken care of. Be sure to mention this.

5. Write It Together

It’s a bad idea to toss an envelope down on the table and ask your partner to sign the contract inside. It will make your partner instantly put their guard up. Instead, ask your partner to sit down with you and an attorney and draw up the prenup together. This will make the contract seem more equitable.

If you would like more information about prenuptial agreements or other family law matters in Orlando, reach out to our experienced team of attorneys. We can answer your questions during a free phone consultation and advise you of all your legal options. Call today to schedule a consultation.

About the Author
Andrew Nickolaou, Esq., B.C.S., is a founding partner at Bernal-Mora & Nickolaou, P.A. He practices almost exclusively in divorce, marital and family law. Andrew and his partner, Ophelia Bernal-Mora, Esq., B.C.S., joined forces in March 2016 to form the unique and boutique husband and wife family law team at Bernal-Mora & Nickolaou, P.A. Together, Andrew and Ophelia take a practical and team-based approach to all of their cases and clients to deliver the highest quality experience and representation.
Andrew Nickolaou

Andrew Nickolaou, Esq., B.C.S., is a founding partner at Bernal-Mora & Nickolaou, P.A. He practices almost exclusively in divorce, marital and family law. Andrew also handles record expungements and sealings. If you have questions about this article, contact Andrew today by clicking here.