Specialist legal advice on prenuptial agreements and marital agreements
Planning your future together shouldn’t mean leaving your financial security to chance. Prenuptial agreements are becoming increasingly common in the UK as couples seek to protect their assets and avoid the economic complications that often arise when marriages break down. While they may seem unromantic, prenuptial agreements can strengthen relationships by providing clarity and reducing potential conflicts.
At Nelsons, we understand that discussing prenuptial agreements requires sensitivity and expertise. Our experienced family law solicitors provide compassionate, professional guidance to help you create comprehensive marital agreements that protect both partners’ interests while preserving the trust and love in your relationship.
Contact us today via our online enquiry form or call 0800 024 1976 for expert advice on prenuptial agreements and postnuptial agreements.
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How can we help with prenuptial agreements and marital agreements
At Nelsons, we have one of the largest teams of specialist family law solicitors across the East Midlands with experts in Derby, Leicester and Nottingham, who can advise on prenuptial agreements and postnuptial agreements.
We specialise in providing comprehensive legal services to individuals and couples seeking to safeguard their financial interests through carefully crafted marital agreements. Our solicitors understand that planning for the future is an essential part of any relationship, and we’re here to guide you through the process with professionalism, sensitivity, and care.
Services we provide
We work closely with clients to create bespoke prenuptial agreements and postnuptial agreements that address specific financial concerns and priorities. We understand that each couple’s situation is unique, and we tailor our services to meet your individual needs:
- Bespoke prenuptial agreement drafting – Tailored agreements addressing your specific financial circumstances, assets, and future plans
- Postnuptial agreement creation – Comprehensive agreements for couples who are already married or in civil partnerships
- Asset protection planning – Safeguarding business interests, family wealth, and inheritance for future generations
- International marital agreements – Specialist advice for couples with assets in multiple jurisdictions
- Agreement review and updates – Regular reviews to ensure your marital agreements remain relevant and enforceable
- Independent legal advice – Ensuring both parties receive proper legal guidance to strengthen enforceability
- Negotiation and mediation – Facilitating discussions between partners to reach mutually acceptable terms
- Court representation – Expert advocacy if prenuptial agreements need to be enforced during divorce proceedings
- Financial disclosure assistance – Guiding you through the full financial disclosure process is essential for valid agreements
Our process for prenuptial agreements
1. Initial consultation and needs assessment
We’ll discuss your circumstances, financial positions, and goals for the prenuptial agreement. Our solicitors will explain the legal framework and assess what type of marital agreement best suits your needs.
2. Financial disclosure and asset evaluation
Both parties will provide full and frank financial disclosure, including all assets, liabilities, income, and future financial prospects. This transparency is crucial for creating an enforceable agreement.
3. Agreement drafting and negotiation
We’ll draft a comprehensive prenuptial agreement that reflects your wishes while ensuring legal compliance. We facilitate negotiations between parties to reach mutually acceptable terms.
4. Independent legal advice period
Both parties must receive independent legal advice from separate solicitors. We’ll coordinate with your partner’s legal representatives to ensure proper procedures are followed.
5. Finalisation and execution
Once both parties are satisfied with the terms and have received independent advice, we’ll arrange for the formal signing of the prenuptial agreement, ensuring all legal requirements are met.
Why choose Nelsons for prenuptial agreements?
Expertise – Our solicitors are recognised for their expertise in family law and prenuptial agreements. Our expertise is recognised by the independent directories, The Legal 500 and Chambers and Partners. The team includes Resolution Accredited Specialists, Law Society Family Panel & Advanced Family Panel members, and Law Society Children Panel Members.
Proven track record – We have successfully drafted hundreds of prenuptial agreements and postnuptial agreements, many involving complex financial arrangements and high-value assets. Our agreements have consistently withstood legal challenges, providing our clients with the security they sought.
Client-centred approach – Your concerns are our top priority. We approach each case with empathy and understanding, recognising that discussing prenuptial agreements can be emotionally challenging. We tailor our services to your unique circumstances, ensuring your marital agreement reflects your wishes and protects both partners’ interests.
Comprehensive support – We work closely with financial advisors, tax specialists, and other professionals to ensure your prenuptial agreement integrates seamlessly with your broader financial planning. Our established relationships with these professionals provide you with comprehensive support throughout the process.
Proactive communication – Our solicitors are committed to keeping you informed throughout the process. We believe in proactive communication to ensure you are well-informed and confident in the decisions you make about your prenuptial agreement.
Ready to protect your financial future? Contact our expert team
Planning for your future together starts with proper legal protection. Our experienced prenuptial agreement specialists in Derby, Leicester and Nottingham are ready to help you create comprehensive marital agreements that protect both partners’ interests.
Contact us today on 0800 024 1976 or via our online enquiry form to discuss how we can help you create a prenuptial agreement that provides security and peace of mind.
Meet the team
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Emma DaviesPartner & Solicitor
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Gayle RowleyPartner, Solicitor & Mediator
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Hannah BridgwoodLegal Director & Solicitor
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Naomi BondSenior Associate & Solicitor
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Emma RidingSenior Associate & Solicitor
Testimonials...
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Prenuptial Agreements Solicitors FAQS
Below, we have answered some frequently asked questions concerning prenuptial agreements solicitors
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What is a prenuptial agreement?
A prenuptial agreement (also called a pre-marital agreement) is a legal contract made by a couple before they marry or enter into a civil partnership. It sets out how their assets, property, and financial arrangements will be handled should they divorce or have their civil partnership dissolved. Prenuptial agreements can also include provisions for spousal support and arrangements for children from previous relationships.
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What is a postnuptial agreement?
A postnuptial agreement is a marital agreement made after a couple gets married or enters into a civil partnership. Like prenuptial agreements, postnuptial agreements outline how assets and property will be divided if the relationship ends. These agreements are particularly useful when circumstances change after marriage, such as receiving an inheritance, starting a business, or having children.
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Are prenuptial agreements legally binding in the UK?
While prenuptial agreements are not automatically legally binding in the UK, the courts increasingly recognise and uphold them provided they meet certain criteria. The landmark case of Radmacher v Granatino established that prenuptial agreements can carry decisive weight if they are freely entered into with full understanding of their implications. To maximise enforceability, both parties must receive independent legal advice, provide full financial disclosure, and the agreement must be fair to both parties.
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When should I consider a prenuptial agreement?
Prenuptial agreements are particularly valuable if you have significant assets, own a business, expect to receive an inheritance, have children from previous relationships, or if there’s a significant disparity in wealth between partners. They’re also beneficial for couples who want clarity about financial arrangements and wish to avoid costly disputes in the event of relationship breakdown.
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What should be included in a prenuptial agreement?
A comprehensive prenuptial agreement should cover division of assets and debts, spousal support arrangements, protection of business interests, inheritance provisions, and arrangements for any future children. It should also address how the agreement will be reviewed and updated, and specify which jurisdiction’s laws will apply. Our solicitors ensure all relevant areas are covered while tailoring the agreement to your specific circumstances.
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Can a prenuptial agreement be challenged or overturned?
Yes, prenuptial agreements can be challenged in court, particularly if they were signed under duress, without proper legal advice, or if there was inadequate financial disclosure. Courts may also set aside agreements that are fundamentally unfair or that don’t provide for the needs of children. However, properly drafted agreements that follow legal requirements are increasingly likely to be upheld by the courts.
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How long does it take to create a prenuptial agreement?
The process typically takes 6-12 weeks from initial consultation to signing, depending on the complexity of your circumstances and how quickly financial disclosure is provided. We recommend starting the process at least 3-4 months before your wedding to ensure there’s adequate time for proper consideration and negotiation without the pressure of impending nuptials.
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Can we use the same solicitor for our prenuptial agreement?
No, both parties must receive independent legal advice from separate solicitors for the prenuptial agreement to carry maximum weight in court. This ensures that both parties fully understand the implications of the agreement and that their individual interests are properly protected. We can recommend experienced colleagues to represent your partner if needed.
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What happens if we don't have a prenuptial agreement?
Without a prenuptial agreement, your assets will be divided according to the court’s discretion if you divorce, based on factors such as the length of marriage, contributions made by each party, and future needs. This can result in lengthy, expensive court proceedings and outcomes that neither party anticipated. Prenuptial agreements provide certainty and can significantly reduce the time, cost, and emotional stress of divorce proceedings.
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