Valentine’s Day is one of the most popular times of the year for proposals – a day filled with love, excitement, and plans for the future. Amid the romance, many couples are also choosing to talk openly about long term expectations. As marriage is contemplated, a topic growing in relevance is whether a prenuptial agreement should be considered.
What is a Prenuptial Agreement?
A prenuptial agreement (or “prenup”) is a written contract made before marriage that sets out how finances, assets, and responsibilities will be handled if the relationship later breaks down. In England, prenups are not automatically binding, but courts increasingly uphold them, especially when they are fair, transparent, and entered into willingly with independent legal advice.
Why now?
With many engagements on the horizon, February is a natural time for couples to talk not just about their future wedding day, but the life that comes after it.
A prenup can be a reassuring foundation for marriage. It can reinforce trust by encouraging couples to talk openly about money, expectations, and what each partner would consider fair if circumstances change.
A prenup needs to be entered into at least 28 days before the wedding day, so early conversations to ensure there is sufficient time for both parties to take the time they need to think things through and obtain independent legal advice is important.
Benefits for Couples
- Clarity and communication: A prenup encourages discussions about finances that
- many couples avoid but benefit from.
- Protection for both parties: It can safeguard premarital assets, family businesses,
- inheritances, or children from previous relationships.
- Reduced conflict later: Clear expectations today can help prevent disputes
- tomorrow.
- Flexibility over time: Prenups can include review clauses to adapt as life evolves.
Debunking the Myths
Prenups are not just for the wealthy and they are not a sign of distrust. Instead, they show a willingness to plan responsibly and fairly. When both parties enter the agreement freely and with independent legal advice, it can strengthen, not weaken, the relationship.
Valentine’s Day is about celebrating a shared future. A prenuptial agreement is one way to honour that future, offering clarity, fairness, and peace of mind. It’s another way of saying, “I want us both to be protected, whatever life brings”.
If you have any questions or concerns, please contact, please contact a member of our Family Team here, who will be happy to assist you.
The information on this site about legal matters is provided as a general guide only. Although we try to ensure that all of the information on this site is accurate and up to date, this cannot be guaranteed. The information on this site should not be relied upon or construed as constituting legal advice and Howes Percival LLP disclaims liability in relation to its use. You should seek appropriate legal advice before taking or refraining from taking any action.