Prioritizing Your Promises
TATARSHA D.HARRIS
1. Prenuptial or Premarital Agreements refer to agreements made in contemplation of marriage. The agreement must be executed prior to marriage and becomes binding on the date of marriage.
Prenuptial Agreements typically address topics such as the rights arising from death of a spouse, alimony, property division in the event of a divorce, etc. Entering into a Prenuptial Agreement is advantageous because it eliminates the uncertainty of legal disputes and establishes each party’s expectations. Ideally a pre-nuptial agreement also provides full disclosure of the assets of each party, while precluding the non-disclosure of excessive debt.
If presented with a Prenuptial Agreement do not sign it until you have consulted with an experienced attorney.
Family Agreements
2. A Postnuptial or Post-Marital Agreement is a contract signed by either spouse after marriage. Spouses that wish to agree on issues regarding the division of property, retirement benefits, support, etc., can execute a Postnuptial Agreement. If you are presented with such an agreement during marriage, it is important that you independently consult with an attorney, prior to signing the contract. Postnuptial or post marital agreements are voluntary and binding under contract law.
3. Separation Agreements are efficient and cost-effective to resolve disputes between separating spouses. A Separation Agreement resolves issues such as spousal support, child custody, child support, and division of assets and debts after the parties separate. If either spouse files for divorce, a Separation Agreement eliminates the uncertainty of allowing the court to decide what’s best for you and your family when litigating disputes.
Ms. Harris provides cost-effective flat fee Separation Agreement services. If you are presented with a Separation Agreement from your spouse or spouse’s attorney, do not sign it until you have consulted with an experienced attorney.
4. Parenting Agreements allow parents to enter into an enforceable contract regarding parenting issues such as: custody and living arrangements, visitation, financial issues, education, medical care, religious training, and holidays. Parenting agreements are beneficial for parents who are in the process of separating or obtaining a divorce. Parents can avoid a bitter custody battle in the courtroom, and further avoid leaving the decision making to the courts.
Additionally, parenting agreements establish the expectations of each parent, which provides for a structured environment for the children and less stress and anxiety for everyone involved.
Finally, a parenting agreement is efficient to resolve custody disputes and is highly cost effective.
