Getting Married – Intended or unintended consequences

For more information about the legal consequences of getting married contact our Family & Relationship team today on 01284 767 766

If you and/or your partner own a house, marriage can have long term implications for ownership. Married couples acquire rights of occupation, and in the event of a divorce can make a claim on property that isn’t held in their name. If either one of you owns property or has substantial assets prior to the marriage you would be well advised to complete a Pre-Nuptial Agreement (a ‘Prenup’).

Prenups can set out how you’ll divide assets in the unfortunate event that your marriage breaks down. They can also determine how you will manage the matrimonial finances and any assets acquired during the course of the marriage. For a Prenup to be enforceable it is essential that you have full financial disclosure and that you each seek independent legal advice before signing. Recent research by the Marriage Foundation has found that couples who deal with tricky financial and other matters prior to the marriage are ‘less likely to be derailed by them if and when they arise’.

Your Wills can also be invalidated, at least in part, by marriage and divorce. Our team of experts can help you both draft Wills that will meet your needs.

There are a few legal consequences that you should be aware of before getting married. For more information on how to protect yourself when committing to marriage contact our Family & Relationships team on 01284 767 766

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