Before You Tie The Knot, Ask Yourself

LANSDALE, Pa. - April 27, 2018 - PRLog -- The wedding season is here. There are few times in a couple's life together as romantic and exciting as getting married. However, while not exactly the stuff of romance novels, discussing legal and logistical matters before tying the knot may protect a marriage from unraveling in the future.

Before saying "I do," Dischell Bartle Dooley suggests couples consider the following:

1. Do we need a prenuptial agreement?  Prenuptial agreements  – meant to specify in advance each spouse's rights in the event that the marriage breaks down – are not just for the rich and famous. If you or your soon-to-be spouse own a family business, real estate or other interests you'd like to preserve, consider putting your intent to paper to ensure that those interests are protected in the event of death or divorce. Likewise, couples who anticipate a certain lifestyle, such as one spouse becoming a stay-at-home parent, may want to predetermine how either spouse will be maintained in the event of separation or divorce.

2. Will we purchase a home and/or how will we maintain a home? If you and your partner intend to buy a home together, consider the source of the funds for the purchase. Discussing how such a large purchase will be made ahead of time can stave off issues down the road. Consider whether you and your partner intend to title the property in joint names and how you intend the property to be passed down upon your death.

3. What is Pennsylvania's law regarding assets and marital property? Knowing your rights and obligations pursuant to Pennsylvania's divorce and estate laws may not be the most romantic way to enter a marriage. However, being mindful of your rights and obligation to your spouse can help both of you determine the best way to plan your financial life together. Before you tie the knot, learn how Pennsylvania's law would handle your finances so you can prepare wills or estate documents if you'd like your property to pass in a different manner.

4. If we have children, how will we raise them financially? Discussions regarding future children and parenting styles can be thorny. Not only can you and your partner have different ideas about parenting styles, you may also have different ideas about what kind of life you'd like your children to lead. Do you or your spouse intend for your children to attend private school? What kind of activities or expenses do you anticipate for your children? Discussing the kind of obligations and expenses you foresee for your children and how you, as a couple, intend to handle those expenses can help keep you on the same page.

Dischell Bartle Dooley congratulates all the brides and grooms.