In most societies, weddings are about celebrations and the coming together of two families. Much of the focus is on what the bride will wear, what the couple will do for a reception, who will be in their wedding party, and where they will go for their honeymoon. Most of us get caught up in these details because they are fascinating. In all of the excitement and planning, many of us forget that a wedding is a legal contract as well. There are many things to think about because there will likely be changing names and perhaps even prenuptial agreements.
No one likes the idea of prenuptial agreements as it just doesn’t seem all that romantic, but for many people, they are necessary. If you plan on having a prenuptial agreement, this should be completed before any wedding planning begins. The majority of couples can enter into such an agreement without a problem, but occasionally it is not as simple as many believe it should be. Many brides or grooms are taken off guard when presented with a prenuptial agreement if it has never been discussed before. An excellent tip for those who will need such an agreement is to discuss it before an engagement occurs so that both people can decide how they feel about it.
Once both parties of the couple are aware that a prenuptial agreement is necessary, the couple should seek the help of a lawyer. Many people try to write these agreements on their own, but a lawyer can help write an agreement that will protect both assets and people if the marriage ends. Having a legal expert look over any paperwork is a good idea and should be done before the wedding rather than after it to avoid undue conflict.
Changing names is often the last thing people think about when they get married, but it is essential. After someone is married, they need to ensure that they complete and submit the appropriate documents reflecting their new married name. Social security documents or taxpayer-identification documents must be updated, and one must also acquire a new driver’s license with their new name. Changing names is often easier if all of the paperwork is filled out before the wedding so that they can be sent off or turned in immediately after the wedding to comply with the law. Being prepared ahead of time is one of the best tips for changing names because all of the work is done, and the forms need to be processed.
