Postnuptial Agreements in Lehi
Marriage changes over time. Jobs change. Families grow. Finances shift. Sometimes couples realize after getting married that they need clearer rules around money and property.
A postnuptial agreement gives married couples a way to make those decisions together. It helps both spouses understand their rights and responsibilities and can reduce stress in the future.
At Christensen Law, we help Lehi couples create postnuptial agreements that are fair, clear, and legally enforceable.
What Is a Postnuptial Agreement?
A postnuptial agreement, also called a postmarital agreement, is a written agreement made after a couple is already married. It explains how finances will be handled during the marriage and if the marriage ends.
A postnup can cover many of the same topics as a prenuptial agreement. These include property, income, debt, and spousal support.
Like a prenup, a postnuptial agreement cannot decide child custody or child support. Courts decide those issues based on what is best for the children at the time.
Why Couples Choose Postnuptial Agreements
Many couples choose a postnuptial agreement for practical and personal reasons. Common reasons include:
- Wanting clearer financial rules after marriage
- Changes in income, assets, or career paths
- One spouse leaving work to care for children
- Protecting a business or new assets
- Rebuilding trust after a serious issue in the marriage
- Creating structure when no prenup was signed
A postnup helps couples talk openly about finances and make decisions together.
Common Situations Where a Postnuptial Agreement Makes Sense
Postnuptial agreements are often used when life changes after marriage. Examples include:
One spouse steps away from their career to care for children.
A postnup can help protect that spouse if the marriage ends.
One spouse gains new wealth or income.
This could include a business, promotion, inheritance, or investment.
A marriage faces serious challenges.
Some couples use a postnup to rebuild trust and set clear expectations.
A couple never signed a prenup.
It is often better to make an agreement later than never.
What a Lehi Postnuptial Agreement Can Include
A postnuptial agreement in Lehi can address many financial topics, including:
Property Ownership
The agreement can explain what property is separate and what is shared.
Division of Assets
It can explain how property will be divided if the marriage ends.
Income and Retirement Benefits
The agreement can address income, pensions, and retirement accounts.
Debt Responsibility
It can explain who is responsible for debts, including debts from before or during the marriage.
Spousal Support
The agreement can include rules about spousal support, also called alimony.
Estate Planning Rights
Some inheritance and estate-related rights can be addressed along with a will or trust.
What a Postnuptial Agreement Cannot Include
There are limits to what a postnup can cover. In Lehi, a postnuptial agreement cannot decide:
- Child custody
- Child support
- Anything illegal or against public policy
Courts always decide child-related issues based on the child’s best interests.
Are Postnuptial Agreements Enforceable in Lehi?
Yes. Lehi courts do enforce postnuptial agreements when they are done correctly.
Courts look at postnuptial agreements under general contract rules. Judges focus on what the agreement says and whether both spouses clearly understood it.
Agreements are more likely to be enforced when they are fair, clear, and made voluntarily.
What Makes a Postnuptial Agreement Valid in Lehi?
For a postnuptial agreement to be enforceable in Lehi, it must:
- Be entered into voluntarily
- Be free from fraud or pressure
- Include full financial disclosure
- Clearly explain the terms
- Reflect a mutual understanding by both spouses
If these standards are not met, a court may refuse to enforce the agreement.
Financial Disclosure and Fairness Matter
Full financial disclosure is very important in postnuptial agreements. Both spouses must share complete and accurate financial information.
This includes assets, income, debts, businesses, retirement accounts, and property. Hiding information can make the agreement invalid.
Fairness also matters. Extremely one-sided agreements are more likely to be challenged.
How Christensen Law Can Help
Christensen Law helps Lehi clients with postnuptial agreements by:
- Drafting clear and customized postnuptial agreements
- Reviewing agreements before signing
- Advising on fairness and enforceability
- Protecting income, property, and future earning potential
- Helping couples navigate sensitive financial discussions
We focus on clarity, fairness, and long-term protection.
Talk With a Lehi Postnuptial Agreement Attorney
A postnuptial agreement can help couples create financial clarity and protect both spouses after marriage. Having the right legal guidance makes a big difference.
Contact Christensen Law today to schedule a confidential consultation and learn whether a postnuptial agreement is right for you.
People Also Ask: FAQs
What is a postnuptial agreement?
A postnuptial agreement is a written agreement made after a couple is already married. It explains how money, property, and debts will be handled during the marriage and if the marriage ends.
Why do people get a postnuptial agreement?
People get a postnuptial agreement when life changes after marriage. This may include changes in income, having children, one spouse leaving work, gaining new assets, or wanting clearer financial rules.
Is a postnuptial agreement enforceable in Lehi?
Yes. Lehi courts can enforce postnuptial agreements if they are fair, voluntary, and include full financial disclosure. Courts look closely at how the agreement was created.
How is a postnuptial agreement different from a prenup?
The main difference is timing. A prenup is signed before marriage. A postnup is signed after marriage. Both can cover similar financial issues.
Can a postnuptial agreement decide child custody or support?
No. A postnuptial agreement cannot decide child custody or child support. Courts decide those issues based on what is best for the child at the time.
Do both spouses need a lawyer for a postnuptial agreement?
Each spouse should have their own lawyer. This helps show that both people understood the agreement and agreed to it freely. It also makes the agreement stronger if it is challenged later.
Can a postnuptial agreement protect a stay at home spouse?
Yes. A postnup can help protect a spouse who leaves work to care for children by recognizing that decision and providing financial protection if the marriage ends.
Is a postnuptial agreement a sign that a marriage is failing?
No. Many couples use postnuptial agreements to improve communication and create clarity. It is a planning tool, not a prediction of divorce.