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Timeline for Getting a Prenuptial Agreement: What to Expect

Understand the step-by-step process and timeline for creating a prenuptial agreement before marriage.

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Getting a prenuptial agreement takes between 2-6 months on average. But timing can vary based on your situation, approach, and how quickly you and your partner make decisions. Let's break down the timeline and what you can expect at each stage.

The Basic Timeline

Here's a general timeline for creating a prenup:

Initial discussions and planning: 2-4 weeks
Financial disclosure preparation: 1-2 weeks
Drafting the agreement: 2-4 weeks
Review and negotiations: 2-4 weeks
Finalizing and signing: 1-2 weeks

When to Start the Process

Start your prenup at least 3 months before your wedding date. This gives you enough time to work through the process without rushing. It also helps avoid claims of coercion that could invalidate your agreement.

But don't wait too long. As discussed in First - Online Prenups with an Actual Lawyer, creating a prenup can bring couples closer through open financial discussions. Starting early gives you time for these important conversations.

Breaking Down Each Phase

Initial Discussions (2-4 weeks)

This first phase involves talking with your partner about:

Your financial goals and concerns
What you want to protect
How you'll handle future assets
Property division preferences
Debt responsibilities

Financial Disclosure (1-2 weeks)

You'll need to gather and share:

Bank statements
Investment account details
Property ownership documents
Income information
Debt records

Drafting the Agreement (2-4 weeks)

Your lawyer will create the first draft based on your discussions and financial information. This includes:

Property division terms
Spousal support provisions
Debt allocation
Special conditions you've requested

Review and Negotiations (2-4 weeks)

Both parties review the draft with their lawyers. You might go through several rounds of revisions to reach terms that work for everyone.

Factors That Affect Timeline

What Makes It Faster

Having organized financial records
Clear communication between partners
Agreement on major terms
Using an online service
Both partners being responsive

What Causes Delays

Complex assets or business interests
Disagreements about terms
Slow response times
Missing financial documents
Multiple revision rounds

Using an Online Service vs Traditional Method

The traditional lawyer-based approach typically takes 3-6 months. But online services can speed up the process significantly. With First's streamlined process, many couples complete their prenups in 2-3 weeks.

Tips to Stay on Schedule

Set clear deadlines for each phase
Gather financial documents early
Respond promptly to questions
Schedule regular check-ins with your partner
Keep communication open and honest

Legal Requirements and Timing

Your prenup must be signed well before the wedding. California courts often scrutinize agreements signed less than 7 days before marriage. Give yourself enough time for:

Independent legal review
Seven-day waiting period
Proper execution of documents
Notarization

Common Timeline Questions

Is it ever too early to start?

No. You can start discussing and planning your prenup as soon as you decide to marry. Early planning gives you more time to think through decisions without pressure.

What if we're short on time?

First offers a Rush option for time-sensitive situations. Start as early as possible for the best results.

Next Steps

Ready to start your prenup? Begin the process here.

The sooner you start, the more time you'll have to create an agreement that works for both of you.

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