Prenuptial Agreements.
Smart Planning for a Stronger Future.
A prenuptial agreement—often called a "prenup"—is a legally binding contract that couples sign before getting married. While often misunderstood, these agreements aren’t just for the wealthy or for planning divorce—they’re about transparency, communication, and protecting both partners from uncertainty down the road.
At Poppy Legal Group, we help individuals and couples in Massachusetts draft, review, and negotiate prenuptial agreements that reflect their values and goals—while meeting the state’s legal requirements.
What Is a Prenuptial Agreement?
A prenuptial agreement outlines how certain issues will be handled in the event of divorce or death. Common topics include:
Division of assets and debts
Ownership of premarital property
Spousal support (alimony)
Treatment of inheritances or family trusts
Responsibility for certain expenses during the marriage
While a prenup can’t address custody or child support (those decisions are made based on the child’s best interest at the time of separation), it can provide clarity on financial matters and help avoid future conflict.
Why Consider a Prenup?
Prenuptial agreements are often used when:
One or both partners have significant assets, income, or debt
There are children from a prior relationship
A family business, trust, or inheritance needs protection
One partner plans to pause their career to care for children
Both partners want clarity and fairness, no matter what the future holds
These agreements aren’t about mistrust—they’re about mutual respect and preparing for life’s possibilities with eyes open.
What Makes a Prenup Valid in Massachusetts?
Massachusetts courts will enforce a prenuptial agreement only if certain conditions are met, both at the time it’s signed and at the time it’s enforced. To be legally valid, a prenup must:
Be fair and reasonable at the time of signing and enforcement
Be entered into voluntarily, without coercion
Be based on full and accurate financial disclosure from both parties
Be in writing and signed by both parties before the marriage
Not include terms that are “unconscionable” or contrary to public policy
Because these agreements are subject to court review, it’s important to draft them carefully and with legal guidance on both sides.
Drafting vs. Reviewing a Prenup
At Poppy Legal Group, we offer services for:
Drafting a prenuptial agreement that protects your interests while being balanced and enforceable
Reviewing a prenup prepared by your partner’s attorney, and explaining what it means for you in practical terms
Negotiating terms in a respectful, collaborative way, keeping future fairness and relationship dynamics in mind
We encourage clients to start the process early—well before the wedding—to allow time for thoughtful discussion and avoid any pressure or last-minute legal stress.
How Poppy Legal Group Can Help
Prenuptial agreements don’t have to be awkward, aggressive, or one-sided. Our team approaches them with sensitivity, clarity, and respect for both parties. Whether you’re looking to protect specific assets or simply want a plan in place, we’ll help you craft or review an agreement that reflects your values and protects your future.
