87 Practical legal tips to protect your future after the wedding day Planning a wedding is a joyous whirlwind. From choosing the perfect venue and colour scheme to selecting flowers, menus and rings, there’s plenty to consider before the big day arrives. Once the celebrations are over, attention naturally turns to building your future together. As you plan your home and family life, taking a few simple legal steps now can offer invaluable peace of mind and help ensure you and your loved ones are financially protected. We caught up with the team at HRJ Foreman Laws Solicitors, who’ve shared their legal tips for couples planning a life together. Here’s what Family Law Solicitor, Katharine Scoot had to say: Pre-nups and post-nups “The term Pre-nuptial Agreement (or Post-nuptial Agreement, if signed after the marriage) is becoming more common in the UK than ever before. While these agreements are not automatically legally binding, a court is highly likely to uphold the agreement provided both parties received independent legal advice, made full and frank financial disclosure to each other and, for Prenuptial agreements, signed the document at least 28 days before the wedding. Following these professional requirements ensures the agreement carries significant weight with a judge. “There are several reasons for the increased popularity, for example, one partner having significantly more assets or income than the other, addressing family trusts or inheritances, clarifying the handling of pre-marital assets as well as assets acquired during the marriage, or managing debt obligations. “They set out how your assets would be dealt with should the marriage end. It’s an opportunity for an open discussion with your partner about your financial backgrounds, responsibilities and expectations for the future.” Securing your home “Whether you’re buying your first property together or bringing existing homes into the marriage, the way your property is legally owned is crucial. Joint ownership is not a one-size-fits-all solution. An experienced conveyancing solicitor can explain the practical differences between owning property as Joint Tenants, where ownership automatically passes to the surviving partner, and Tenants in Common, where each person owns a defined share that can be left to someone else through a Will. “If one partner needs to protect their financial contribution, a solicitor can also help draft a Declaration of Trust. This legal document records each person’s exact share in the property and provides clarity and security should circumstances change. With the right legal advice, you can ensure your home ownership reflects your intentions.” Your Wills and LPAs “After you say ‘I do,’ your life changes legally. But marrying doesn’t automatically protect your future as fully as you might think. Marriage often cancels out any Will you made before the wedding. If you don’t write a new one, the law dictates who inherits, which can leave your partner (or your children) facing uncertainty. A well-drafted Will ensures your partner directly inherits what you intend, providing security during the worst of times. “For couples with young children, a Will is the only legal document that allows you to formally nominate guardians who would care for your children should both parents pass away. “A Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA) is another essential step and one of the most caring decisions you can make for each other. If one partner becomes unable to make decisions due to an illness or accident, an LPA allows the other to manage finances and make important health and welfare decisions. There are two types: one covering property and financial affairs, and another covering health and welfare. Without an LPA in place, your partner may face a lengthy and costly court process just to access bank accounts, pay a mortgage or be involved in medical decisions.” Taking these simple legal steps may not be the most romantic part of wedding planning, but they provide lasting security, peace of mind and a strong foundation for your life together. Planning your life together CONTACT NOW! To schedule a chat about securing your shared future, contact HRJ Foreman Laws Solicitors. 01462 458 711 info@hrjforemanlaws.co.uk hrjforemanlaws.co.uk unsplash.com@gettyimages
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