Prenuptial and Postnuptial Agreement Counsel in St. Charles, Missouri
Marriage creates legal and financial obligations that can extend far beyond the relationship itself. For individuals living in St. Charles, Missouri, prenuptial and postnuptial agreements provide a way to address those obligations deliberately—before misunderstandings, conflict, or major life changes occur. These agreements allow couples to define financial boundaries and expectations rather than relying entirely on default state law.
At Stange Law Firm, PC, we work with clients throughout St. Charles County on matters involving prenuptial and postnuptial agreements. Our attorneys assist with drafting new agreements, reviewing existing contracts, and resolving disputes when enforcement becomes an issue.
Why Some Couples Choose Prenuptial Agreements
A prenuptial agreement is entered into before marriage and serves as a financial roadmap should the marriage later end due to dissolution or death. While no two agreements look the same, many couples use them to clarify ownership of assets acquired before marriage and to define how future financial matters will be handled.
Prenuptial agreements are commonly considered by individuals who own real estate, operate businesses, anticipate inheritances, or have children from prior relationships. Others simply want financial clarity at the outset of marriage. Regardless of motivation, the agreement should reflect the couple’s actual financial situation and long-term goals.
Some prenuptial agreements are concise. Others require significant detail to address complex holdings such as investment accounts, retirement assets, or business interests. The focus should always be accuracy, transparency, and enforceability.
Missouri Law and Enforceability Considerations
Courts in Missouri carefully evaluate prenuptial agreements when enforcement is later challenged. Several procedural and substantive factors often influence whether an agreement will be upheld, including whether:
The agreement was reduced to writing and signed by both parties
Each party fully disclosed assets, income, and liabilities
Existing maintenance or support obligations were disclosed
Both individuals had meaningful time to review the agreement before the wedding
The agreement was executed voluntarily and without coercion
Each party had the opportunity to obtain independent legal advice
Agreements that fall short of these standards may face enforceability issues later, particularly during dissolution proceedings.
Postnuptial Agreements for Married Couples in St. Charles
Postnuptial agreements are signed after a marriage has already begun and may address many of the same financial issues as prenuptial agreements. These agreements are sometimes used when financial circumstances change, when new assets are acquired, or when spouses want greater certainty regarding ownership and financial responsibilities.
Because spouses owe legal duties to one another during marriage, postnuptial agreements are often subject to close judicial review. Clear drafting, full disclosure, and voluntary participation by both parties are especially important when these agreements are later examined by a court.
Addressing Disputes Involving Marital Agreements
Disputes over prenuptial or postnuptial agreements most often arise during dissolution of marriage proceedings. Courts may examine how the agreement was prepared, whether both parties understood its terms, and whether enforcing the agreement remains appropriate under current circumstances.
One recurring issue involves representation at the time of signing. When one spouse did not have independent legal counsel, that fact may later be cited as grounds for challenging enforceability. Separate representation for each party can help reduce future disputes and strengthen the agreement’s durability.
Please also note that Kirk C. Stange is the author of Prenuptial Agreements Line by Line, published by Thomson Reuters (Aspatore Publishing), reflecting extensive experience with the drafting and analysis of prenuptial agreements.
Court Resources for St. Charles County Residents
When marital agreement matters require court involvement, cases for St. Charles residents are generally handled through the St. Charles County court system. Familiarity with local rules and procedures can help matters proceed more efficiently.
Helpful local resources include:
Speak With a St. Charles, Missouri Marital Agreement Attorney
While prenuptial and postnuptial agreements are not always easy topics to raise, many couples view them as practical tools for financial planning and risk management. Addressing these issues early may help reduce uncertainty and conflict later.
To speak with a St. Charles, Missouri attorney about a prenuptial or postnuptial agreement, contact Stange Law Firm, PC online or by phone to schedule a confidential consultation.
St. Charles Office Location:
2268 Bluestone Drive
St. Charles, Missouri 63303
