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Prenup Myth vs. Reality: What Couples Get Wrong

💍 Love Is Strong—But Is It Protected  ?

If you’re engaged or in a long-term committed relationship, you’ve probably thought: “We love each other. We don’t need a prenup.”
It’s a comforting belief—but it’s also one of the most common myths family law attorneys see.

Before you assume the law has your best interests in mind, take a few minutes to read what most couples wish they’d known before saying “I do.”

As a family law attorney who has spent decades working with couples at every stage of their relationships, I hear this phrase often—especially from engaged couples planning a wedding:

“We love each other. We don’t need a prenup.”

I understand where it comes from. Love is strong. The future feels secure. And talking about a prenup can feel uncomfortable—almost like planning for failure. But here’s the reality I’ve learned from years of experience.

The Myth

Prenups are for people who don’t trust each other or expect their marriage to fail.

The Reality

Prenups are for people who want clarity, fairness, and protection—especially when they love each other.

Whether you sign a prenup or not, the law already has a plan for your marriage. State law decides how assets, debts, income, and even future financial responsibilities are handled if something unexpected happens. Most couples just don’t realize they’re agreeing to those rules by default.

What I’ve Seen Firsthand

Most divorces don’t begin with anger or betrayal. They begin with love—just like yours. But years later, couples are often shocked by outcomes they never discussed early on:

  • One partner sacrificed a career
  • One brought significant assets or debt into the marriage
  • Expectations around money were never aligned

Without a prenup, those conversations happen later—often in moments of stress, grief, or conflict.

 

What a Prenup Really Does

A prenup isn’t about divorce. It’s about communication.

  • It encourages honest conversations about finances and goals
  • It reduces uncertainty and resentment
  • It protects both partners, not just one

In healthy relationships, clarity strengthens trust.

A Final Thought

True commitment isn’t about avoiding hard conversations. It’s about having them while you still feel connected, optimistic, and on the same team.