Couples preparing for their wedding this year are being encouraged by a leading family lawyer to consider a prenuptial agreement, which can help protect their financial future.
Claire Chisnall, Senior Associate at Consilia Legal, has observed a notable increase in prenup enquiries over the past 12 months, as more couples seek financial security before their big day.
According to independent research from the Marriage Foundation, one in five marriages now includes a prenuptial agreement, a figure that has steadily risen over the past 50 years.
While some may be surprised by the growing popularity of prenups, it is perhaps less shocking that 44% of these agreements are signed by higher-income couples.
A prenuptial agreement is a legal document signed before marriage that sets out how a couple’s finances, assets, and liabilities will be handled in the event of a separation. Although nuptial agreements are not currently legally binding in the UK, courts are increasingly recognising them—provided they meet key requirements, including fairness, full financial disclosure, and independent legal representation for both parties. Additionally, the Law Commission has proposed changes that could further reinforce the legal standing of prenups in the future.
Claire states: “With the wedding season fast approaching, now is the perfect time to have an open and honest discussion about financial expectations and protections. We’ve seen an increase in couples opting to sign prenuptial agreements, because of the security they bring. Not only can couples protect personal and family assets, but prenups allow parties to clarify their financial expectations, protect an individual from their partners’ debt liability, as well as ensure any inheritance intended for children from a previous relationship is protected.”
Prenuptial agreements offer numerous benefits, including peace of mind and an opportunity to discuss finances openly before marriage—helping to build trust and mutual understanding.
Historically, prenups were associated with the wealthy elite, but perspectives are shifting. A recent YouGov poll found that 55% of Britons now support prenuptial agreements, an increase from 42% in previous years. Younger couples, in particular, are more accepting, with 49% of 25–34-year-olds in favour of prenups, compared to just 26% of those over 55.
While many couples spend significant time planning their wedding day, it is equally important to consider the years ahead. A prenuptial agreement is not about anticipating divorce but ensuring that both partners enter marriage with financial clarity.
Claire continues: “When couples say “I do” they want to start out this new chapter with openness and honesty, and whilst prenups have been considered a taboo subject in the past, there’s nothing more honest and open than discussing finances and how you both want to protect your assets in the future.
“It might feel like it’s going against the grain to be thinking about what might happen if your marriage breaks down, so we want to dispel the stereotype and show couples that a prenup isn’t about planning for failure, but about sensible and prudent consideration for your future that is based on trust and transparency.”
With evolving attitudes towards marriage, younger generations are embracing prenuptial agreements, moving towards a more practical and forward-thinking approach to financial planning in relationships.
For those getting married this year, now is the ideal time to explore prenups. Consulting a family law expert can provide clarity on financial options and ensure both partners feel secure as they embark on this new chapter together.
Consilia Legal, which recently marked its 10th anniversary, has a highly experienced family law team that can help draft tailored prenuptial agreements to suit individual needs.
For more information or to book a free, no-obligation consultation, visit www.consilialegal.co.uk or call 0113 322 9222.
