Relationship Agreements

Relationship agreements are increasingly popular as a way to help preserve family wealth in case a relationship breaks down. They are particularly useful when inherited wealth, pre-marital wealth or company shares are involved.

You and your spouse or partner may feel uncomfortable discussing financial arrangements that only come into effect if something goes wrong in the future. But discussing these important aspects at the beginning can give your relationship a firm, open basis for enjoying your life together – as well as giving you both peace of mind.

There are three main types of relationship agreement:

• Cohabitation agreement (if you’re not married or in a civil partnership)
• Pre-nuptial agreement (before you get married or enter a civil partnership)
• Post-nuptial agreement (after you get married enter a civil partnership)

Relationship agreements minimise the risk of expensive disputes if the relationship breaks down. They provide some wealth protection as part of an estate or tax planning process and, although not legally binding at present, the courts do take the terms of the agreement into account if a dispute arises.

Richard Barge Partner & Head of Family Law Email: [email protected] Tel: 01244 455371

Lorraine Saunders Family Law Partner Email: [email protected] Tel: 01244 455304