Signing a pre and post nuptial agreement in London isn’t just for celebrities or high-net-worth couples. More and more families are turning to these agreements as a practical way to safeguard not only their assets — but the wellbeing of their children too.
If you're raising children from a previous relationship, planning to blend families, or simply thinking ahead, nuptial agreements can give everyone peace of mind. They aren’t about assuming failure — they’re about creating clarity.
In this guide, we explore how pre and post-nuptial agreements can serve as protective, forward-thinking tools for parents.
What Are Pre and Post-Nuptial Agreements?
-
A pre-nuptial agreement is signed before marriage
-
A post-nuptial agreement is signed after the marriage has taken place
Both outline what should happen to assets, finances, and property in the event of separation or divorce.
While not automatically legally binding in the UK, courts increasingly uphold them — especially when:
-
Both parties had independent legal advice
-
The agreement was entered into freely
-
Financial disclosure was full and fair
-
The terms are reasonable and meet the needs of any children involved
You can read more about legal expectations on the GOV.UK family law guidance page.
Why Parents Should Consider One
When children are involved — especially from previous relationships — a nuptial agreement helps:
-
Define how key assets (like homes) will be used for their benefit
-
Clarify expectations around school fees, maintenance or trust funds
-
Prevent future partners from inheriting everything unintentionally
In other words, they allow you to plan for your children’s future with greater certainty.
They’re especially valuable in cases where:
-
One partner brings significantly more wealth into the relationship
-
There are inherited or family-owned assets you want protected
-
You have adult children or dependents from previous marriages
Avoiding Emotional Fallout Later
Breakups are hard enough without arguments over property and provision. Parents often say they want to “put the kids first,” but legal uncertainty makes that tricky.
A clear agreement can reduce:
-
Stress during separation
-
Legal fees and time in court
-
Conflict between co-parents or stepfamilies
It won’t remove all emotion — but it can remove the ambiguity that fuels disputes. Citizens Advice provides confidential guidance on how to mitigate emotional fallouts in pre and postnuptial agreements.
Making the Agreement Child-Focused
You can tailor nuptial agreements to include:
-
A commitment to prioritise children’s housing needs
-
Clarity on who pays for what (especially if one parent pauses their career)
-
Terms around future inheritances, trusts or savings accounts
It’s also common to include a review clause — so the agreement can be updated after a child is born, adopted, or finishes school.
How to Start the Conversation
Talking about finances before (or during) a marriage can feel awkward. But it doesn’t have to be confrontational.
Try framing it as:
-
A mutual plan for protecting each other and your children
-
A backup that supports your long-term goals
-
A responsible step, like a will or insurance policy
If you're unsure how to begin, consider a joint consultation with a family solicitor. They can help keep the tone neutral and constructive.
It’s About Security, Not Suspicion
Too often, pre and post-nuptial agreements are seen as pessimistic. But in reality, they’re about respect, foresight, and care. The difficult emotions so often associated with them truly represent how much you care about your family’s future.
If you’re planning a future together and have children in the mix, taking steps to ensure everyone is looked after — no matter what — is one of the most loving things you can do.
Legal Disclaimer: This article is for general information only and does not constitute legal advice. For help creating a nuptial agreement, consult a qualified family law solicitor.
