Make Sure Your Marriage Agreements Are In Order
As divorce rates continue to increase, second or third marriages are becoming much more common. It’s very important that you protect your family and assets in any marriage, but this can become even more complicated and necessary if you are blending established families together.
In today’s blog, we’ll discuss various types of marriage agreements and plans that you should discuss with your New Jersey attorney before tying the knot. At the Law Office of Jordan B. Rickards, we can help you with all of your family law needs. Get in touch with our team today to learn more or to get started with your own marriage agreements!
Types of Marriage Agreements
There are a variety of types of marital agreements to discuss or look over with your New Jersey family law attorney. You may not need all of them, but some of the most common types of marriage agreements include:
- Prenuptial agreements
- Postnuptial agreements
- Cohabitation agreements
- Separation agreements
- Child custody agreements
- Child support agreements
Prenuptial Agreements
Prenuptial agreements, often simply called prenups, are a contract that you and your soon-to-be spouse sign and enter into before you are married. The contract lays out what properties and assets each spouse will bring into the marriage. The agreement will also discuss how the assets should all be divided in the event of a divorce. It’s important to work with your lawyer as you draft your prenups so that a fair agreement for both partners is reached.
Postnuptial Agreements
The postnuptial agreement is very similar to the prenups, but it is simply signed after you are married instead of before. In this agreement, you will discuss the division of property if you end up getting divorced, along with any other pressing information you may see fit to include.
Cohabitation Agreements
If you are living together with your partner before you get married, it is a good idea to sign a cohabitation agreement. This will cover any personal, financial, or family issues that will need to be addressed in the event of a breakup or emergency. While you both may have written something on your own, it is always a good idea to get advice from a New Jersey family law attorney to ensure that everything is in order and can be recognized by the state in case the contract needs to be used in legal proceedings.
Separation Agreements
In some cases, you may not be ready to file for a divorce, or you may need to separate from each other for an extended period of time to deal with issues in the marriage. In these cases, you can use a separation agreement to go over important matters such as child custody, child support, and any other obligations needed. However, these agreements will typically become void if both partners begin to live together again with the intent to get back together.
Child Custody Agreements
When you are getting a divorce or separation, you will need to ensure that your children are properly taken care of. The child custody agreement will outline how both partners plan to work together to take care of the child or children you may have together. This will include visitation, education, and much more. If an agreement cannot be reached through discussion, the case can be taken to court as part of the divorce hearings.
Child Support Agreements
Just like with custody, the financial needs of a child must be met and agreed upon by both parents in the event of a separation or divorce. You are legally obligated to support your child until they are 18 years old. This contract will help to define the terms of financial support provided by both parents, and the financial responsibilities of both parties throughout the years to come.
Contact Our New Jersey Law Office Today
No matter where you are in your relationship, the Law Office of Jordan B. Rickards can help you! If you are preparing for marriage, our family lawyer will help you draw up an agreeable prenuptial agreement. Or if you are seeking a divorce lawyer in New Jersey, Mr. Rickards can help you work through all of the complicated proceedings. Get in touch with our office today to learn more or to get started!
