Finan Family Law, APC | Torrance Prenuptial Agreement Attorney
Thinking about signing a prenuptial agreement in California?
Smart move.
But not all prenups are created equal.
If you’re in Torrance, Manhattan Beach, Redondo Beach, Palos Verdes, Long Beach, or anywhere in Los Angeles County, you need to understand the red flags that can make a prenuptial agreement invalid — or dangerously one-sided.
WHAT MAKES A PRENUPTIAL AGREEMENT INVALID IN CALIFORNIA?
California prenups are governed by the Uniform Premarital Agreement Act (UPAA) under the California Family Code.
For a prenuptial agreement to be enforceable, it must be:
- Voluntary
- In writing
- Signed by both parties
- Entered into with full financial disclosure
- Not unconscionable
- Not signed under duress or coercion
RED FLAG #1: YOU’RE ASKED TO SIGN AT THE LAST MINUTE
California law requires at least 7 calendar days between being presented with the final agreement and signing (if not represented by independent counsel), and the signing must be voluntary and free from pressure.
RED FLAG #2: YOU DON’T HAVE YOUR OWN ATTORNEY
If your fiancé’s lawyer drafted the prenup and you don’t have independent legal counsel, that is a major concern. You need someone protecting your interests.
RED FLAG #3: NO FULL FINANCIAL DISCLOSURE
California requires complete and accurate financial disclosure, including assets, debts, income, business interests, retirement accounts, and stock options or bonuses.
RED FLAG #4: IT ELIMINATES SPOUSAL SUPPORT UNFAIRLY
California allows parties to limit or waive spousal support, but it cannot be unconscionable at the time of enforcement.
RED FLAG #5: IT TRIES TO CONTROL CHILD SUPPORT OR CUSTODY
Child custody and child support cannot be predetermined in a prenup in California. These are decided based on the best interests of the child and statutory guidelines.
RED FLAG #6: IT’S OVERLY ONE-SIDED
If the agreement is heavily skewed and one party had significantly more bargaining power, courts may scrutinize it closely.
RED FLAG #7: YOU FEEL PRESSURED, RUSHED, OR INTIMIDATED
If you feel rushed, guilted, or pressured to sign, pause. A prenuptial agreement should feel structured, transparent, and strategic — not intimidating.
DO PRENUPTIAL AGREEMENTS HOLD UP IN CALIFORNIA?
Yes — when drafted properly. A well-prepared prenup can protect premarital assets, business interests, executive compensation, and provide clarity in the event of divorce.
PRENUPTIAL AGREEMENTS IN TORRANCE & THE SOUTH BAY
At Finan Family Law, APC, we draft and review prenuptial agreements for executives, business owners, longshoremen, and professionals throughout Torrance, Manhattan Beach, Redondo Beach, Hermosa Beach, Palos Verdes, Long Beach, and Los Angeles County.
SCHEDULE A CONFIDENTIAL PRENUPTIAL CONSULTATION
If you’re considering a prenuptial agreement in California, protect yourself before you say “I do.” Call Finan Family Law, APC at (424) 419-3067 or Click here to send us a request.
Finan Family Law, APC
Torrance Prenuptial Agreement Attorney
Serving the South Bay & Los Angeles County