With the number of marriages ending in divorce on the rise, it`s no surprise that more couples are considering prenuptial agreements to protect their assets. A prenuptial agreement, also known as a prenup, is a legal document that outlines how a couple`s assets will be divided in the event of a divorce. It can also include provisions for spousal support and other matters.
If you`re considering getting married in the UK and want to create a prenuptial agreement, you can do it yourself without the help of a lawyer. Here`s what you need to know about creating a DIY prenup in the UK.
Step 1: Discuss it with your partner
Creating a prenup is not a decision to be taken lightly, so it`s important to have an open and honest discussion with your partner about why you want to create one, what you hope to achieve, and what you both want to include in the agreement. It`s important that both parties agree to the terms of the prenup before moving forward.
Step 2: Understand the legal requirements
In the UK, prenups are not legally binding, but they are taken into consideration by the courts in the event of a divorce. To ensure that your prenup will be given weight in court, there are certain legal requirements that must be met. For example, the prenup must be signed by both parties and each party must have had the opportunity to seek independent legal advice before signing.
Step 3: Create the agreement
Once you and your partner have agreed to the terms of the prenup and understand the legal requirements, it`s time to create the agreement. There are many online resources and templates available to help you create a prenup, but it`s important to ensure that the document is tailored to your specific situation and needs.
Step 4: Get it signed and witnessed
Once the prenup has been created, it must be signed and witnessed by both parties. It`s important to ensure that the witnesses are not related to either party, and that they understand the document that they are witnessing.
Step 5: Keep it safe
Once the prenup has been signed, it`s important to keep it safe. The document should be kept with other important legal documents, such as wills and insurance policies, and should be easily accessible in the event of a divorce.
In conclusion, creating a DIY prenuptial agreement in the UK is possible, but it`s important to ensure that the document meets the legal requirements and is tailored to your specific needs. If you`re unsure about any aspect of creating a prenup, it`s always best to seek professional legal advice.