Specialist legal advice on prenuptial agreements and marital agreements
Planning your wedding should be joyful, but discussing financial arrangements can feel uncomfortable. Our prenuptial agreement lawyers understand these sensitive conversations and provide expert guidance to protect both partners’ interests whilst strengthening your relationship through transparency and mutual understanding.
Our team of specialist family law solicitors have helped couples across Leicester, Nottingham and Derby create fair, enforceable agreements for over 40 years. Discussing prenuptial agreements requires sensitivity and expertise in both family law and relationship dynamics approaching marriage.
Get expert prenuptial agreement advice today on 0800 024 1976 or via our online enquiry form.
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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.
Prenuptial agreement services we provide
Our prenuptial agreement lawyers provide comprehensive services designed to protect your financial interests whilst maintaining the trust that forms your relationship’s foundation.
- Standard prenuptial agreements – We draft comprehensive prenuptial agreements protecting individual assets, property, and financial interests acquired before marriage whilst establishing clear frameworks for assets acquired during marriage. Our standard agreements address property ownership, business interests, inheritance protection, and debt allocation whilst ensuring both parties understand their rights and obligations. These agreements provide clarity about financial arrangements whilst preserving relationship trust through transparent communication.
- Complex asset protection agreements – High-net-worth individuals need sophisticated prenuptial agreements protecting multiple properties, international investments, and family businesses. Our complex agreements incorporate trust structures, offshore assets, and multi-jurisdictional considerations whilst ensuring compliance with relevant legal requirements. These arrangements require careful drafting to address tax implications, business succession planning, and coordination with existing wealth management structures.
- Business protection and succession planning – We draft prenuptial agreements specifically protecting family businesses, professional practices, and entrepreneurial ventures from matrimonial claims whilst ensuring business continuity. Our business protection specialists understand unique challenges facing business owners and create agreements preserving business value whilst providing fair provision for both spouses. Business protection requires careful consideration of valuation methods and succession planning.
- Inheritance and family wealth protection – Our prenuptial agreement lawyers create agreements preserving family wealth, heirlooms, and inheritance expectations for future generations whilst ensuring current partners are fairly provided for. We understand the delicate balance between protecting family assets and ensuring marriage partners feel secure whilst addressing legitimate concerns about preserving generational wealth.
- International and cross-border agreements – We handle prenuptial agreements for couples with international connections, overseas assets, or multi-jurisdictional considerations. These agreements must be structured for recognition across different legal systems whilst working with overseas legal experts to create comprehensive protection. International considerations include domicile planning, tax implications, and ensuring enforceability across multiple jurisdictions.
- Second marriage and blended family agreements – Second marriages involve complex considerations when partners have children from previous relationships and established asset bases. Our second marriage specialists create agreements addressing these unique challenges whilst ensuring all family members’ interests are appropriately considered. These agreements often involve provisions for children from previous relationships and existing financial obligations.
- Post-nuptial agreement creation – When couples didn’t create prenuptial agreements or circumstances have changed significantly, we draft post-nuptial agreements providing similar protection. Post-nuptial agreements involve additional legal complexities whilst creating fair arrangements that strengthen marriages. These agreements can address changed circumstances, new assets, or evolved priorities whilst maintaining enforceability standards.
Our process for prenuptial agreements
Our structured approach ensures both parties’ interests are fully considered whilst maintaining the balance essential to successful marriages.
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 lawyers?
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.
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
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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 we start the prenuptial agreement process?
Begin at least three to six months before your wedding to allow adequate time for negotiation, drafting, independent advice, and consideration without time pressure. Starting early ensures both parties can make informed decisions without stress whilst allowing time to address concerns.
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What assets should be included in a prenuptial agreement?
Prenuptial agreements should cover pre-marital assets, property, investments, business interests, pension rights, and inheritance expectations. Our prenuptial agreement lawyers ensure comprehensive coverage of current assets whilst establishing frameworks for future acquisitions, debt allocation, and financial arrangements during marriage.
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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 prenuptial agreements, divorce courts divide assets according to fairness principles, potentially including pre-marital assets, business interests, and inheritance in financial settlements. Prenup solicitors help couples maintain control over their financial arrangements rather than leaving decisions to court discretion.
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Can a prenuptial agreement cover child arrangements?
No, agreements cannot predetermine child custody or maintenance as courts always prioritise children’s welfare based on circumstances at the time of separation. However, agreements can address financial arrangements between spouses whilst recognising that children’s needs will be determined separately.
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Are prenuptial agreements enforceable for business owners?
Prenuptial agreements are particularly valuable for business owners, protecting company assets, succession plans, and operational continuity from matrimonial claims. Our business protection specialists draft agreements ensuring family businesses remain protected whilst providing fair provision for spouses through alternative arrangements.
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Can prenuptial agreements protect inheritance from previous generations?
Yes, prenuptial agreements can protect family wealth, heirlooms, and generational assets from matrimonial claims. Our inheritance protection specialists create agreements preserving family wealth for future generations whilst ensuring current marriage partners receive fair financial provision through other means.
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