I really do learn something new every day. What the heck is a post-nuptial agreement? Have you heard of this? I never had, so I looked into it a little bit after coming across a reference to it on a forum.
Apparently, this is a legally binding contract (as long as it is deemed valid in your jurisdiction) which is entered into by a married couple, after making their vows. Pre-nuptial agreements are obviously entered into before the vows, and they tend to be more about money and assets than other issues. Yet, the post-nuptial agreement can encompass many other things including but not limited to child custody and even the breakdown of household chores!
The main reason for the creation of such a contract was actually to protect spouses whose financial situations are headed for changes, which may not occur until after the wedding takes place. For example, if one spouse is selling a business and the transaction won’t be final until after the wedding, the monies from that sale could be protected by a post-nuptial agreement.
On the other hand, one spouse may agree to dealing with most of the household chores and responsibilities, up until he or she starts a new job, completes a degree, or gets that new business up and running. A contract would then make it clear that these responsibilities would be divided up equally.
I’m not really sure how I feel about all of this. It’s kind of cool, but I’d hate to think that I need a legally binding contract for such things in order to hold the person I love to account. In fact, it is suggested that both spouses hire separate attorneys when creating a post-nuptial agreement. Is that really the best way to start a marriage or to build trust?
I’m not sure I’d be comfortable with it, but then I don’t have to worry about it. Creating such an agreement is a personal choice, and may well be useful for some couples. What do you think?
Legality & Marriage: Post-Nuptial Agreements