A prenuptial agreement is a property agreement which clarifies and personalizes the basic property rights granted to married couples. In Washington, these agreements must be fair and should benefit both parties. If you are considering a second marriage, are marrying later in life or have significant assets, you may want a prenuptial agreement so you can customize how financial issues will be resolved should there be a divorce.
This type of advanced planning can help minimize conflict during what is likely a difficult time. While many look at a prenuptial agreement as limiting their rights, it can also be sued to make additional promises in the case of divorce. Either way, the document offers some predictability and can emphasize the serious step you are taking when you marry.
Because a prenuptial agreement is meant to offer clarity, you should be very careful to seek competent and independent advice before you enter into such an agreement.