The Biggest Misconception About Prenups
One of the most common things I hear is, “We just need a simple prenup.” In reality, very few prenuptial agreements are truly simple.
A prenuptial agreement is one of the most important contracts you’ll ever sign. If it’s challenged years later, it may be scrutinized by a judge at one of the most stressful times in your life. That’s not the time to discover it was rushed, poorly drafted, or based on a generic online template.
Why Prenuptial Agreements Aren’t Cheap
A quality prenuptial agreement involves much more than filling in blanks on a form. It requires learning about your financial situation, identifying your goals, discussing future plans, preparing detailed drafts, exchanging financial information, responding to revisions, and ensuring the agreement complies with California law.
In many cases, each person has their own attorney. That process takes time, thought, and professional judgment. You’re paying for customized legal advice designed to reduce the risk of expensive disputes later—not simply for a document.
Why They Aren’t Easy
Good prenups require honest conversations about finances, debt, future earnings, businesses, inheritances, children, and expectations for the marriage. Those conversations aren’t always comfortable, but they’re often one of the most valuable parts of the process.
I’ve found that couples who approach these discussions with transparency often build a stronger foundation for their marriage.
Timing Matters: Start at Least Eight Weeks Before the Wedding
If you’re planning to sign a prenuptial agreement, don’t wait until the invitations have been mailed and the wedding is only a few weeks away.
As a general rule, I recommend contacting an attorney at least **eight weeks before the wedding** whenever possible. Starting early gives everyone enough time to exchange financial information, ask questions, review drafts carefully, obtain independent legal advice, and make thoughtful decisions without unnecessary pressure.
Waiting until the last minute can create avoidable stress and may limit your options.
Spending Money Now Can Save Much More Later
It’s understandable to focus on the cost of a prenuptial agreement. But it’s also important to consider the potential cost of not having one—or having one that wasn’t prepared properly.
Investing in a carefully drafted agreement today may help reduce uncertainty, minimize future disputes, and protect assets you’ve spent years building. In many situations, spending money on quality legal work before the wedding can save far more than it costs if issues arise years later.
Common Mistakes I See
- Waiting until a few weeks before the wedding.
• Looking for the cheapest prenup instead of the right one.
• Assuming an online template is enough.
• Failing to fully discuss financial expectations.
• Treating the prenup as a form instead of an important legal agreement.
Kelley’s Take
A prenuptial agreement isn’t expensive because it’s complicated legal paperwork. It’s valuable because it forces important conversations and creates a roadmap that is tailored to your relationship.
If you’re investing thousands of dollars in a wedding and planning a lifetime together, investing in a thoughtfully prepared prenup is one of the smartest financial decisions you can make.
Talk to Finan Family Law
At Finan Family Law, we prepare customized California prenuptial agreements for professionals, entrepreneurs, executives, business owners, and engaged couples throughout Torrance, the South Bay, and Los Angeles County. If you’re considering a prenup, reach out early. Giving yourself enough time is one of the best decisions you can make.