Can My Fiancé’s Parents Force Me to Sign a Prenuptial Agreement?

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Children do not always agree with their parents. This is something that holds true, even as children grow up and lead lives of their own. In some cases, a parent may want his or her child’s fiancé to sign a prenuptial agreement. Parents can be protective over their children, and this can mean being protective over their finances as well. So, can your future in-laws force you to sign a prenuptial agreement in New Jersey? Read on to find out more.

What is a Prenuptial Agreement?

A  prenuptial agreement is a legal document that declares how your and your spouse’s assets will be divided in the event of death or divorce. Many people avoid making prenuptial agreements because of these negative connotations, but prenups do not indicate a future divorce. Instead, they allow you and your future spouse to discuss financial aspects before the marriage and protect yourselves and each other.

What Makes a Prenup Valid?

In order for a prenuptial agreement to be considered valid:

• Your prenuptial agreement must be executed before you are married.
• Your prenuptial agreement must also be in writing.
• Your prenuptial agreement will have to be notarized, or executed in front of a notary.
• Your prenuptial agreement must completely disclose all assets your and your spouse own.
• You and your future spouse must retain legal counsel, or else explicitly waive your right to do so.
• Your prenuptial agreement must be fair and just to both you and your future spouse. This means that there must be no evidence present of manipulation, coercion, or deceit when it comes to signing such a document.

Can My Fiancé’s Parents Make Me Sign a Prenup?

Because there must be no evidence present of manipulation, coercion, or deceit, you cannot be forced to sign a prenup. If your fiancé’s parents forced you to sign a prenup, it would most likely be considered invalid.

If you have any questions regarding prenuptial agreements in New Jersey and what makes a prenup valid, contact our firm today to discuss.

Contact our experienced Ocean City firm

Matters of divorce and family law require the attention and skill of an experienced attorney who will fight for your future. Not only is your financial well-being at stake, but in a divorce, both you and your children’s emotional well-being are at risk as well. If you need a divorce and family law attorney in Ocean County, New Jersey, please do not hesitate to contact the Law Office of Sarina Gianna, LLC today to schedule a consultation.