Assisting Clients With Prenuptial and Postnuptial Agreements in Houston, Texas
Marriage is both a personal commitment and a legal relationship with financial consequences. For individuals in Houston, Texas, prenuptial and postnuptial agreements provide a way to define financial rights and responsibilities in advance, rather than leaving those matters unresolved until a dispute arises. These agreements can be especially important when one or both parties bring assets, debts, business interests, or prior family obligations into the marriage.
At Stange Law Firm, we work with clients across Houston and Harris County on the preparation, review, and enforcement of prenuptial and postnuptial agreements. Our approach focuses on clarity, enforceability, and tailoring each agreement to the individual circumstances involved.
Understanding Prenuptial Agreements Under Texas Law
A prenuptial agreement is a written contract entered into before marriage that outlines how certain financial matters will be handled if the marriage ends through dissolution or death. In Texas, these agreements are governed by the Uniform Premarital Agreement Act (UPAA), which provides a framework for enforceability.
Prenuptial agreements are commonly used to address issues such as:
Property owned prior to the marriage
Responsibility for premarital debts
Business ownership or professional interests
Treatment of gifts or inheritances
Spousal maintenance considerations permitted by law
Division of property upon dissolution
Some prenuptial agreements are narrowly focused, while others are comprehensive due to the complexity of the parties’ finances. The effectiveness of the agreement depends on accuracy, transparency, and proper execution—not length.
Requirements for a Valid Prenuptial Agreement in Texas
For a prenuptial agreement to be enforceable in Texas, certain legal requirements must be met. Generally, the agreement must:
Be in writing
Be signed by both parties before marriage
Be entered into voluntarily
Be supported by fair disclosure of assets and liabilities, or a knowing waiver of disclosure
Texas law does not require additional consideration beyond the marriage itself. However, agreements that are unconscionable or improperly executed may be challenged later.
Postnuptial Agreements in Houston, Texas
Postnuptial agreements—sometimes called marital property agreements—are entered into after a couple is already married. These agreements may address many of the same financial issues as prenuptial agreements, including property classification and division.
Postnuptial agreements are often used when financial circumstances change during the marriage, such as when assets are acquired, income increases significantly, or spouses want to clarify financial expectations moving forward. Because spouses owe legal duties to one another, courts often review these agreements carefully.
Enforcement and Challenges Involving Marital Agreements
Disputes over prenuptial or postnuptial agreements typically arise during dissolution proceedings. When enforcement is contested, courts may examine how the agreement was prepared, whether both parties understood its terms, and whether it was entered into voluntarily.
One common issue involves legal representation at the time of signing. When one party did not have independent counsel, that factor may later be raised in an attempt to challenge enforceability. Separate legal representation for each party can help reduce this risk.
When litigation becomes necessary, our attorneys focus on developing a strategy that balances legal options with practical considerations such as cost, timing, and long-term impact.
Harris County Court Resources for Houston Residents
Marital agreement matters in Houston are generally handled through the Harris County court system. The following resources may be helpful:
Speak With a Houston, Texas Attorney About Marital Agreements
While prenuptial and postnuptial agreements can be difficult conversations, many individuals view them as practical planning tools that provide clarity and reduce uncertainty. Addressing financial expectations early can help avoid conflict later.
To schedule a confidential consultation with a prenuptial or postnuptial agreement attorney in Houston, Texas, contact Stange Law Firm online or call 855-805-0595.
Harris County (Houston) Office:
3200 Wilcrest Drive, Suite 110
Houston, Texas 77042
Phone: 346-466-4901
