There are different reasons why a couple might enter into an agreement related to issues like property division or spousal support after they are already married. With the help of a Bellevue postnuptial agreements lawyer at Twyford Law Office, it may be possible to work out beneficial terms for both spouses. Let our skilled marital contract attorneys advise you of your options. 

While most people are familiar with the concept of a prenuptial agreement, that is not always the case with postnups. A different type of contract that has much in common with prenups, postnuptial agreements are executed by two people who are already legally married. 

Why Get a Postnuptial Agreement?

The idea of entering into an agreement like this after marriage may feel like planning for divorce. However, there are plenty of reasons to work with a postnuptial agreements lawyer in Bellevue other than when a marriage is likely coming to an end. 

One of the most common reasons occurs when one spouse takes on substantial debt that the other has nothing to do with. To protect them from creditors in the future, it is possible to use a contractual agreement to shield that spouse from debt they did not accrue. 

Others might opt for a postnuptial contract to reconcile after a separation. Setting firm financial terms could be a condition for one spouse to stay in the marriage and attempt to resolve any conflicts. 

How These Agreements Work

A postnuptial agreement is a contract between two people who are already married. They are typically used to address important financial matters that might be contentious should the pair ever divorce. 

Many postnuptial agreements are used to address the division of marital property. This includes not only splitting up these assets, but also determining what belongs jointly to the couple as well. It might also deal with questions of alimony

There are some issues that the parties cannot decide via contract, including any matters related to minor children. The parties cannot determine custody issues or waive the right to child support; a judge must ultimately make those decisions. The courts are bound to act in the best interest of the child, even when both parents are in agreement. 

It is helpful to note that while postnuptial agreements can last forever, they may not always have an effect. These contracts specifically spell out what happens when couples separate or divorce, but they do not come into play when one of the parties dies. No matter the language of the agreement, these contracts will not supersede Washington intestate succession or override the terms of a person’s will. 

This is only one of the unique considerations that must be made in these cases. To ensure a contract takes into account everything that matters to the parties, relying on the guidance of a qualified Bellevue postnuptial agreements attorney is critical. 

Talk to a Postnuptial Agreements Lawyer in Bellevue

These marital contracts are not only allowed in Washington; they can provide couples with options to help them remain together on firm financial footing. If you are curious about your options, a Bellevue postnuptial agreements lawyer at Twyford Law Office is here to help. Call right away for your free legal consultation.