Many consider the mention of a prenuptial agreement to be a red flag indicating that the marriage will not last, and that tends to go doubly for a postnuptial agreement. In many situations, however, a marital agreement formed either before or after the start of marriage can strongly benefit both spouses.
The question remains, though, as to how you should discuss the idea of a postnuptial agreement with your spouse without setting off any alarms. By keeping a couple of important points in mind, you can form an agreement that helps both sides protect what matters most in your marriage.
Present the mutual benefits of a marital agreement
When you initially bring up the topic of a postnuptial agreement, it is important to not take a selfish approach. Focus instead on how the agreement can grant peace of mind to both parties. For example, a postnup can actually strengthen a marriage by clearing away uncertainty regarding the division of marital property, even if divorce is not on the table.
Express the importance of independence in a marriage
Many married individuals value independence and individuality even when marriage ties so many aspects of one’s life to a spouse. This can be especially true in marriages between two working individuals, both of whom have their own careers and aspirations to consider. When discussing a postnuptial agreement, it can be prudent to illustrate to your spouse how a postnup can preserve that sense of independence.
It can be stressful to prepare for the conversation regarding a postnuptial agreement even if you are not remotely considering divorce. You can take steps to ensure a successful discussion by prioritizing openness, honesty and mutual benefit when talking it over with your spouse.