When it comes to prenuptial agreements, it’s a good idea to reserve your judgment. A prenuptial agreement, which is also known as a premarital agreement, is nothing more nor less than a legal contract that guides the outcome of specific divorce-related terms (or enforcement of inheritance-related) terms in the event of a divorce. A prenuptial agreement does not make divorce more likely, but it can help ensure that, if a divorce is in one’s future, the outcome will be less uncertain – and the proceedings will likely be less contentious. If you have questions or concerns related to prenuptial agreements (also known as premarital agreements) in Illinois, reach out to an experienced prenuptial agreement lawyer near you.Â
In the State of Illinois – as in other states – prenuptial agreements (also known as premarital agreements) can address the following terms of divorce:
Because the court bases every decision that relates to child custody (called parental responsibilities, which includes both decision-making and parenting time in Illinois) on the best interests of the children at the time the decisions are being made, a prenuptial agreement cannot address these matters. When it comes to determining who will be making important parenting decisions on behalf of your children (decision-making) and how you and your ex will divide your time with your children (parenting time), you have to either come to a mutually agreeable decision in the event of divorce or turn to the court for intervention (if you are unable to resolve the issues between yourselves) for entry of an Allocation Judgment of Parental Responsibilities.Â
Prenuptial agreements are created prior to marriage, and they go into effect immediately upon marriage (if the couple does not go through with the marriage, however, a signed prenuptial agreement has no bearing). In order for a prenuptial agreement to be valid in the State of Illinois, all the following must be true, plus other additional factors:
The seasoned prenuptial agreement lawyers at WARD FAMILY LAW in Chicago have an impressive track record of helping clients like you craft prenuptial agreements that protect their rights and provide them with increased peace of mind. To learn more, please don’t wait to contact us today.
Love and marriage. We needed a prenup because our families made us do one just to be safe. The entire thing was smooth so we could focus on our wedding and not be too crazy with the prenup. The agreement was drafted and reviewed by each of our attorneys, we signed and we were married. Woo Hoo. Thanks again, Ward Family Law.
10/10 is my rating for Ward Family Law. Jennifer and Emily went above and beyond in my divorce case. I cannot say more praise.
I lost my job but still had to pay the child support. I was scrambling. I talked to Jennifer Ward and she explained the process and the need to quickly file to put the court on notice that my child support needed to change. She saved me so much money in the long run while I looked for a new job so that I could start paying to help my kids again. Losing my job was not in the plan but at least my kids are on track.
If you would like an attorney to contact you for a free consultation, please complete this form.