Fredericksburg, VA
Marriage Agreements
Postnuptial Agreements
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The Benefits of a Postnuptial Agreement in Fredericksburg: Securing Your Future Together

At Shawna L. Stevens PLLC, we understand that family law matters require sensitivity, compassion, and expertise.
A postnuptial agreement may not sound romantic, but for many couples it becomes a practical way to protect assets,
reduce uncertainty, and make expectations clear. Below is a straightforward guide to why postnuptial agreements can be
helpful and how they work in Virginia.

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Quick takeaway

A postnuptial agreement is a written contract signed after marriage that can clarify property rights,
financial responsibilities, and potential support terms. Under Virginia Code §20-151, marital agreements must be in writing
and signed by both parties to be enforceable.

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What It Is
Benefits
Spousal Support
If Divorce Happens
Talk With Us

1

What Is a Postnuptial Agreement?

A postnuptial agreement (sometimes called a marital agreement) is a legally binding contract entered into by spouses after marriage.
These agreements can address property division, spousal support, and other financial matters. Under Virginia Code §20-151, a marital agreement
must generally be in writing and signed by both parties to be enforceable.

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2

Key Benefits of a Postnuptial Agreement

While no one enters a marriage expecting conflict, many couples choose postnuptial agreements to reduce uncertainty and protect what matters most.
Here are some of the biggest benefits:

Protecting separate property

A postnuptial agreement can define separate property and help avoid disputes later. Virginia Code §20-107.3 generally addresses separate property,
including property acquired before marriage, certain gifts or inheritances, and property traceable to separate assets.

Clarifying financial responsibilities

Couples can outline how expenses are handled, how accounts are managed, and how major decisions are made, which can reduce conflict and improve transparency.

Promoting open communication

The process encourages honest conversations about finances, goals, and expectations, which can build trust and strengthen the relationship.

Reducing uncertainty

A clear agreement can reduce the “unknowns” and help both spouses feel more secure about financial outcomes.

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3

Addressing Spousal Support

A postnuptial agreement can set expectations for spousal support in the event of divorce. Virginia Code §20-107.1 provides guidelines that courts
may consider when determining spousal support, but a properly drafted marital agreement can address support terms in a way the couple agrees is fair
and reasonable.

A well-drafted agreement can reduce future conflict by making expectations clear now—while you can still have calm, thoughtful conversations.

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4

Simplifying the Divorce Process if It Happens

If a marriage ends, a postnuptial agreement can streamline divorce by predetermining financial issues such as property division and support.
That often means fewer disputes, less stress, and lower overall costs.

Many couples find a postnuptial agreement helpful when:

• One spouse starts or buys into a business
• There is a major inheritance or family asset to protect
• One spouse plans to leave the workforce or change careers
• The couple wants a clear plan for handling finances going forward

This post is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Every agreement should be tailored to the facts of your marriage.

Considering a Postnuptial Agreement in Fredericksburg?

If you are thinking about a postnuptial agreement, the attorneys at Shawna L. Stevens PLLC can help you understand your options and draft an agreement
that meets your goals and protects your financial future. Call 540-310-4088 or contact us online to schedule a consultation.

Contact Us

Serving Fredericksburg and surrounding Virginia communities.

Need legal help in Fredericksburg? Prenuptial agreement lawyer in fredericksburg — Shawna L. Stevens PLLC. Call (540) 310-4088 or schedule a consultation.