Prenuptial and Postnuptial Agreement Support in Des Moines, Iowa
For many couples in Des Moines, marriage is both a personal commitment and a legal transition. Once married, Iowa law creates financial rights and obligations that can affect property, income, and debt—sometimes in ways people do not expect. Prenuptial and postnuptial agreements give couples the ability to define those issues in advance rather than leaving them entirely to the court system.
Stange Law Firm works with individuals throughout Polk County to prepare and address prenuptial and postnuptial agreements that reflect their goals, financial realities, and long-term plans.
Planning Ahead With a Prenuptial Agreement
A prenuptial agreement is signed before marriage and serves as a framework for how certain financial matters will be handled if the marriage ends. While these agreements are sometimes associated with high-asset marriages, they are also commonly used by people with modest assets who want clarity and predictability.
In practice, prenuptial agreements are often used to:
Preserve property owned before marriage
Allocate responsibility for existing debts
Protect business or professional interests
Clarify financial expectations when blending families
Reduce uncertainty if the marriage later dissolves
Some agreements focus on a small number of issues, while others address a broader financial picture. The usefulness of the agreement depends less on its length and more on how clearly it reflects the parties’ intentions.
How Iowa Law Evaluates Prenuptial Agreements
Iowa has adopted the Uniform Premarital Agreement Act (UPAA), which provides the legal framework for determining whether a prenuptial agreement can be enforced. When a dispute arises, courts may examine whether the agreement was prepared thoughtfully and fairly.
Key considerations often include whether the agreement was documented in writing, signed voluntarily, and supported by full financial disclosure. Timing also matters. Agreements presented immediately before a wedding or without meaningful opportunity for review may raise concerns if enforcement is later challenged.
Independent legal advice for each party is another factor that can significantly affect enforceability.
Addressing Financial Issues After Marriage With Postnuptial Agreements
Postnuptial agreements are created after a couple is already married. These agreements may be used when financial circumstances change, such as an increase in income, acquisition of property, or a desire to clarify financial responsibilities that were never formally addressed earlier.
Because spouses already owe legal duties to one another, postnuptial agreements are often scrutinized closely by Iowa courts. Clear terms, transparency, and voluntary consent are essential to avoid future disputes.
When Agreements Are Challenged or Enforced
Disagreements involving prenuptial or postnuptial agreements most often surface during divorce proceedings. At that stage, courts may evaluate how the agreement was negotiated, whether both parties understood its terms, and whether enforcement would be reasonable under present conditions.
One recurring issue is whether both parties had separate legal representation at the time the agreement was signed. When only one spouse was advised by counsel, that fact may later be used to question the agreement’s validity.
When litigation becomes unavoidable, careful preparation and strategic decision-making are critical.
Polk County Court Resources for Des Moines Residents
Marital agreement matters in Des Moines are generally handled through the Polk County court system. The following resources may assist individuals navigating local procedures:
Speak With a Des Moines Attorney About Marital Agreements
Although conversations about marital agreements are not always easy, many individuals view them as practical tools for financial planning and risk management. Addressing these matters early can help reduce uncertainty and conflict later.
To schedule a confidential consultation regarding a prenuptial or postnuptial agreement in Des Moines, Iowa, contact Stange Law Firm online or call 855-805-0595.
Polk County (Des Moines) Office
400 Locust Street, Suite 358
Des Moines, Iowa 50309
Phone: 515-706-9130
This office is available by appointment only.
