If you have consulted with a competent family law attorney, or are even a regular reader to this blog, you already know that prenuptial agreements are the most effective way of protecting assets during a divorce. A prenuptial agreement states what assets belong to an individual and what is considered marital property. Under such agreement, an individual will not lose any of the wealth he or she enters a marriage with.

Despite its effectiveness, many couples in Massachusetts and elsewhere shy away from prenuptial agreements because of the negative stigma that can sometimes come with. Some people might assume if their prospective husband or wife wants a prenuptial agreement, he or she does not have faith the marriage will last. This is not always true.

To get by this dilemma, there are a number of ways spouses can bring up the idea of a prenuptial agreement without ruffling any feathers. The following are some ways:

  • Do not belittle the spouse that makes less money: It is easy for a spouse to get defensive when their husband or wife makes substantially more than them and wants a prenup. Make sure the spouse that makes less feels valued in the relationship.
  • Focus on all elements of the agreement: A prenup deals with assets before, during and after a marriage in addition to retirement plans. Focusing on the big picture will place less emphasis on the fate of assets during a divorce.
  • Incorporate it in your estate planning: Deal with the prenup as a part of your overall estate plan. This helps to not single out the prenup and spouses will be less likely to get up in arms about it.
  • Seek the help of a mediator: A professional can help guide couples through the process and make sure to hit on all the minute details of the agreement.
  • Give yourself time for it before the wedding: Hashing out a prenuptial agreement can be a timely process. Getting it done well before making wedding arrangements gives couples time to strike an appropriate agreement and not feel rushed or stressed.

Source: Business Insider, "10 ways to bring up a prenup without getting dumped," Mandi Woodruff, Jan. 26, 2012