Prenuptial Agreement

A written agreement signed before marriage that defines property rights and financial responsibilities during and after marriage. Under California Family Code §1610-1617, prenups can designate a business as separate property, waive community property claims, and limit spousal support. Requirements for enforceability: independent counsel for both parties, full financial disclosure, signed at least 7 days before the wedding, and not unconscionable. For business owners, a properly executed prenup is the single most effective protection against losing the business in divorce.