WALK WITH CONFIDENCE

You need a lawyer. We put you first with personalized representation. Our attorneys are here to support you.

Group photo of attorneys Gary C. Angiuli, Annamarie Gulino Gentile and Stefanie Lynn DeMario

Staten Island Marital Agreement Lawyers With Over 30 Years Of Experience

A prenuptial agreement can help to protect your interests before you get married. A postnuptial agreement is a similar type of agreement that can provide the same protection but is created during your marriage. At Angiuli & Gentile, LLP, we understand that navigating the waters of marital agreements can seem daunting, but it can also help you facilitate an open, honest discussion with your spouse about the future and your wishes. That’s why we’re here – to help you through the conversation and guide you through the process with empathy and a steady hand. Whether you’re considering a prenuptial agreement or seeking advice on postnuptial matters, our seasoned family law attorneys are at your service right here in Staten Island.

When it comes to family law, details matter. As experienced divorce lawyers and marital agreement attorneys, we are highly skilled in crafting agreements that protect your interests and foresee potential future scenarios. Our goal? To provide you with peace of mind, knowing your assets and future are secure, no matter what may come.

At Angiuli & Gentile, LLP, we pride ourselves on our personal approach, ensuring that you feel supported and informed throughout the process. So, if you’re looking for a marital agreement lawyer who truly cares, give us a call at 347-201-4447. You can also reach us using our online contact form. Let’s secure your tomorrow, today.

Understanding Your Options In Premarital Agreements

At Angiuli & Gentile, LLP, we recognize that every relationship is unique and that each party to a marriage has unique circumstances to accommodate. Accordingly, we help our clients to understand their options and weigh the pros and cons of a prenuptial agreement.

The benefits of a prenuptial agreement extend to both parties before they marry, providing each with an opportunity to communicate openly and honestly about how money and finances will be handled by each partner during the marriage, how assets and debts will be divided, spousal support and perhaps child custody in the event of divorce.

Prenuptial Agreements: Not Just For The Wealthy

A prenuptial agreement is not an instrument to cast doubt in the minds of one or both partners; it is a document designed to address the most cited subject of conflict within a relationship before the marriage is consummated – finances. A prenup allows each partner to understand how money will be handled during the marriage. They also help to anticipate and establish guidelines for dealing with unforeseen circumstances that may develop during the marriage.

Addressing Financial Concerns: Why Couples Choose Postnuptial Agreements

Postnuptial agreements address the same concerns, contain similar provisions, and, like prenuptial agreements, are governed by state law. However, postnuptial agreements are agreed to after the legal marriage, whereas prenuptial agreements are entered into before the marriage. Couples may enter into a postnuptial agreement when their finances substantively change during the marriage to better handle money and assets in the event of a divorce.

Choosing The Right Marital Agreement For Your Marriage

The main advantage of putting together a prenup is understanding the financial situation and likely roles of each spouse before the wedding. When deciding what elements are essential to your agreement with your spouse, consider questions such as:

  • How will property be divided when you get divorced? Should certain assets and investments remain separate? Are there debts that should remain separate?
  • What will happen if one spouse passes away?
  • Are there children from a previous marriage? Is there a specific property that should remain in one family?

These are just a few of the questions that can be resolved through a prenup or postnuptial agreement. If the agreement is unacceptable to one of the parties, they may decide not to get married. Like qualified domestic relations orders (QDRO), the adage “better earlier than later” applies. If you are not familiar with a QDRO, click here to learn more.

If you have questions about the prenuptial process, call us at 347-201-4447 to schedule a consultation with Erin K. Colgan, a leading Staten Island divorce lawyer and certified mediator.

Who should consider a marital agreement?

Marital agreements aren’t just for those with significant assets; they’re for any couple seeking clarity and reassurance about their financial arrangements in marriage. At Angiuli & Gentile, LLP, we recommend that anyone entering into a marriage consider a marital agreement. This includes individuals looking to protect inherited property, secure financial stability or outline each partner’s financial responsibilities during the marriage.

Anyone stepping into a marriage might consider a marital agreement for numerous reasons:

  • Asset protection: It safeguards premarital assets and inheritance.
  • Clarity and security: Outlines the financial responsibilities and rights of each partner.
  • Children from previous relationships: Ensures children from previous relationships are financially protected.
  • Debt management: Separates personal debts to prevent shared responsibility.
  • Business owners: Protects business interests and operations from marital disputes.

By discussing and agreeing on financial terms upfront, couples can strengthen their relationship with clear expectations and mutual understanding. It’s a proactive step toward a secure, transparent partnership.

Do I need a lawyer for a marital agreement?

Yes, consulting with a marital agreement lawyer is crucial when drafting a marital agreement. Legal expertise ensures that the agreement complies with state laws and addresses all relevant issues comprehensively.

Engaging a family law attorney in drafting a marital agreement is essential:

  • Legal validity: Ensures the agreement complies with local laws and court requirements.
  • Fair representation: Protects the rights and interests of both parties, avoiding biased agreements.
  • Comprehensive coverage: Addresses all pertinent financial and personal considerations thoroughly.
  • Conflict avoidance: Reduces future disputes by setting clear terms from the start.

At Angiuli & Gentile, LLP, our experienced Staten Island marital agreement attorneys help you understand your rights, suggest fair provisions and draft an agreement that protects both parties’ interests. Moreover, a lawyer can foresee potential future issues, ensuring the agreement is robust against unforeseen changes in circumstances.

How much does a marital agreement cost?

Several factors influence the cost of a marital agreement:

  • Complexity of assets: More diverse or extensive assets require more detailed analysis.
  • Negotiation required: Time spent negotiating terms can affect costs.
  • Custom provisions: Specific needs or unusual circumstances can increase drafting time and complexity.

Generally, investing in a marital agreement can save significant financial and emotional costs compared to resolving disputes in court later. As the leading Staten Island marital agreement attorneys, we aim for transparency in pricing, offering consultations to discuss your needs and provide a clear fee structure.

Can a marital agreement be changed?

Yes, marital agreements can be amended post signature if both parties agree to the changes. Circumstances change, and agreements might need to be updated to reflect new realities such as changes in financial status, the birth of children or relocation.

Modifying a marital agreement is possible under the following conditions:

  • Mutual consent: Both parties agree to the amendments.
  • Life changes: Significant changes in circumstances, such as financial shifts or family expansion, can necessitate updates.
  • Legal assistance: A lawyer should review changes to maintain the agreement’s enforceability and relevance.

At Angiuli & Gentile, LLP, we can help you renegotiate and update your agreement, ensuring it remains fair and applicable. Legal guidance is essential during this process to ensure the updated agreement remains enforceable.

Can a marital agreement be thrown out?

A marital agreement can be invalidated if it fails to meet certain legal standards. There are circumstances under which a marital agreement might be invalidated:

  • Coercion or duress: Proof that one party was forced or threatened into the agreement.
  • Fraud: Nondisclosure or false disclosure of assets.
  • Unconscionability: Extremely one-sided agreements that no reasonable person would agree to.
  • Improper execution: Failure to adhere to legal standards for drafting and signing.

Our Staten Island marital agreement attorneys meticulously draft agreements to avoid such pitfalls. Our thorough approach ensures that both parties clearly understand the agreement, supported by complete and fair disclosure of all assets. This meticulous legal scrutiny protects the agreement from being challenged in court.

Is a separation agreement right for you?

A separation agreement becomes essential when couples decide to live apart without immediately pursuing a divorce. At Angiuli & Gentile, LLP we craft these agreements with the utmost care and legal expertise, ensuring all aspects of your separation are clearly outlined. This includes:

  • Division of assets
  • Allocation of debts
  • Child custody arrangements
  • Spousal support.

Our role as your family law attorney is to ensure that the agreement protects your rights while facilitating a respectful and clear transition. Crafting a solid separation agreement with a trusted family lawyer in Staten Island can help prevent misunderstandings and conflicts in the future, making it a wise step toward a structured separation.

Marital Settlement Agreement Basics

A marital settlement agreement is a cornerstone document used to finalize the terms of a divorce. This agreement outlines everything from asset distribution and debt responsibilities to alimony and child custody terms. At Angiuli & Gentile, LLP, we understand the importance of creating a fair and comprehensive marital settlement agreement that respects the interests of both parties. As experienced Staten Island divorce lawyers, we guide our clients through each detail, ensuring that no aspect of their future is left to chance. Crafting this agreement with precision and foresight can significantly ease the legal transition of divorce, allowing both parties to move forward with clarity and confidence. Let us help you secure an agreement that stands the test of time and law.

Get Clarity And Peace Of Mind – Schedule A Consultation For Staten Island Marital Agreements

Navigating family law issues can be stressful and complex, but you don’t have to do it alone. FIRM NAME, your local Staten Island family law firm, is here to help. Our practice is focused on divorce law, marital agreements and all facets of family law, ensuring your rights and interests are protected.

Why wait? Take the first step toward peace of mind today by scheduling a consultation with us. Our friendly divorce attorneys and marital agreement lawyers are ready to provide you with clear, actionable advice tailored to your unique situation. Call us at 347-201-4447 or fill out our contact form. We’re here to help you secure a positive future.

Considering A Divorce?

We Know What’s Going Through Your Mind:

How It Works

1

Meet with us

2

Together we create
and work on the plan

3

We’ll take it
from here

Your situation matters to us. Let us help you.
Please schedule your consultation today.

Call or Email us today to get started