Couples, both straight and gay, are frequently shocked at the legal consequences they face upon divorce, disability or death. Love is even more meaningful when all parties understand the rights and responsibilities of legal marriage. For example, absent a written agreement to the contrary, the law requires handing over roughly half of accumulated assets upon divorce. Also, if you intend your estate plan to leave most of your assets to a child from a previous relationship, it is important to know the law stipulates that your current spouse’s inheritance rights, unless modified by a nuptial agreement, override that plan.
Because marriage laws vary from state to state, if a couple moves from Florida and the marriage ends, there might be unintended consequences. A well-crafted prenuptial or postnuptial agreement will ensure that the understandings between you and your spouse are respected no matter what. And if you decide marriage isn’t right for you, we can craft a co-habitation agreement to detail what should happen with jointly held property if you break up.
When relationships end, the issues can be thorny. It helps to have an advocate who is committed to achieving your goals with as little acrimony as possible. We are certified mediators and practice Collaborative Law: we are dedicated to minimizing emotional and financial costs of a split by resolving the issues outside of the courtroom. Our attorneys will counsel & support you as you begin a new chapter of your life.
