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Prenuptial Agreements: A Comprehensive Guide for All Couples

Learn everything you need to know about prenuptial agreements, how they protect your assets, and why they're valuable for couples with children, young couples, blended families, and those with significant assets.

Introduction

A prenuptial agreement (commonly called a 'prenup') is a legal contract created by two people before they marry that typically outlines how assets and debts will be divided in the event of divorce or death. While often associated with wealthy individuals protecting their fortunes, prenups serve many practical purposes for couples across various life situations. This document can help clarify financial rights and responsibilities, protect family businesses, shield one spouse from the other's debts, and establish clear guidelines for property division. Whether you're entering marriage with children from previous relationships, significant assets, or simply want clarity about your financial future together, understanding prenuptial agreements is an important step in building a secure foundation for your marriage.

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Key Things to Know

  1. 1

    Prenuptial agreements must be executed well before the wedding (at least 30 days is recommended) to avoid claims of coercion or duress.

  2. 2

    Both parties must provide complete and honest financial disclosure for the agreement to be valid.

  3. 3

    Each person should have their own independent legal counsel review the agreement before signing.

  4. 4

    Prenups cannot determine child custody or child support amounts, as these must be decided based on the best interests of the child at the time of divorce.

  5. 5

    The agreement should be reviewed and potentially updated after major life events such as the birth of children, significant inheritance, or substantial changes in financial circumstances.

  6. 6

    State laws vary regarding prenuptial agreements, so it's essential to work with an attorney familiar with the laws in your jurisdiction.

  7. 7

    A well-crafted prenup promotes financial transparency and communication, which can strengthen your relationship rather than undermine it.

  8. 8

    For blended families, a prenuptial agreement should work in conjunction with your estate plan to ensure children from previous relationships are protected.

Key decisions before you file

Before you file a Prenuptial Agreement in South Dakota, a few decisions shape the document: which option to choose and what each one means. The Prenuptial Agreement guide walks through them.

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South Dakota Requirements for Prenuptial Agreement

  • Voluntary Execution (SDCL § 25-2-18)

    Both parties must enter into the agreement voluntarily, without fraud, duress, or undue influence. South Dakota courts will scrutinize prenuptial agreements for evidence of coercion or pressure.

  • Full and Fair Disclosure (SDCL § 25-2-18)

    Each party must provide complete and accurate disclosure of all assets, liabilities, and income. Failure to disclose material information may render the agreement unenforceable in South Dakota.

  • Independent Legal Representation (SDCL § 25-2-18)

    While not strictly required, each party should have the opportunity to consult with independent legal counsel before signing. This significantly strengthens the agreement's enforceability in South Dakota courts.

  • Execution Timing (SDCL § 25-2-18)

    The agreement should be executed well before the wedding date (recommended at least 30 days prior) to avoid claims of duress or undue pressure.

  • Property Classification (SDCL § 25-4-44)

    Clear identification and classification of separate property (owned before marriage) and marital property (acquired during marriage), with provisions for how property will be treated during marriage and upon dissolution.

  • Alimony/Spousal Support Provisions (SDCL § 25-4-41)

    Provisions regarding waiver or limitation of alimony/spousal support. South Dakota courts may review these provisions for unconscionability at the time of enforcement.

  • Marital Debts (SDCL § 25-2-10)

    Provisions addressing responsibility for debts incurred before and during the marriage, including potential protection from a spouse's separate debts.

  • Estate Rights (SDCL § 29A-2-202)

    Provisions regarding inheritance rights, including potential waiver of elective share rights that would otherwise be available under South Dakota law.

  • Sunset/Duration Provisions (SDCL § 25-2-18)

    Optional clauses specifying if the agreement expires after a certain period of marriage or if certain provisions change based on the length of the marriage.

  • Choice of Law (SDCL § 53-1-4)

    Specification that South Dakota law governs the agreement, particularly important if the couple may relocate to another state or if assets are located in multiple states.

  • Modification Procedures (SDCL § 53-8-7)

    Procedures for modifying the agreement after marriage, typically requiring a written amendment signed by both parties.

  • Child Support Limitations (SDCL § 25-7-6.2)

    Recognition that child support obligations cannot be limited by prenuptial agreements as they are determined by court based on the best interests of the child.

  • Child Custody Limitations (SDCL § 25-4-45)

    Acknowledgment that child custody arrangements cannot be predetermined in prenuptial agreements as courts determine custody based on the best interests of the child at the time of divorce.

  • Unconscionability Standard (SDCL § 25-2-18)

    Recognition that the agreement must not be unconscionable at the time of execution or enforcement. South Dakota courts may refuse to enforce provisions that have become extremely unfair over time.

  • Uniform Premarital Agreement Act Compliance (N/A (Common Law))

    While South Dakota has not adopted the UPAA, the agreement should consider its principles as they represent common standards for prenuptial agreements across many states.

  • Federal Tax Considerations (26 U.S.C. § 1041)

    Provisions addressing federal tax implications of property transfers during marriage and upon divorce, including potential capital gains tax consequences.

  • Retirement Account Provisions (29 U.S.C. § 1055)

    Provisions addressing retirement accounts must comply with federal ERISA requirements, particularly for qualified retirement plans which may require spousal consent forms separate from the prenuptial agreement.

  • Social Security Benefits (42 U.S.C. § 407)

    Recognition that certain federal benefits like Social Security cannot be waived or altered by a prenuptial agreement.

  • Military Benefits (10 U.S.C. § 1408)

    For military couples, provisions addressing military retirement and benefits must comply with federal laws including the Uniformed Services Former Spouses' Protection Act.

  • Severability Clause (SDCL § 53-5-3)

    Provision stating that if any portion of the agreement is found invalid or unenforceable, the remainder of the agreement will still be valid and enforceable to the fullest extent permitted by law.

Frequently Asked Questions

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