3 Ways Prenuptial Mediation Prevents Stress

Premarital agreements are becoming more common among couples who are planning to wed. In a recent study performed by an independent New York law firm, the usage of these protective contracts has increased fivefold over the past twenty years. While these agreements can offer protection to both parties, requesting prenuptial mediation during the creation of the premarital agreement can reduce stress for both parties in a number of ways.

 

Misunderstandings May Be Reduced

While a prenuptial agreement is designed to reduce misunderstandings regarding finances and what each party is entitled to should the marriage end, they may still arise if one or both parties are unclear about certain details contained within the written agreement. Having a professional mediator provide guidance increases communication between the two people involved and reduces stress that may otherwise result from arguing. For example, if there is a portion of the agreement that is unclear to the groom, a prenuptial mediator can provide the legal, financial and other information about which details are giving him trouble and then make the language of the prenuptial agreement clear so misunderstandings do not arise later on.

 

Both Sides Are Represented Equally

During the drafting of a premarital agreement, one party may feel underrepresented if they cannot afford to have an attorney present. This might make the individual feel as if his or her rights, wishes and needs are not being taken into account, which may cause feelings of:

• Resentment
• Anger
• Helplessness

Having a neutral third party professional mediator present will prevent these feelings in everyone involved and ensure that each individual has his or her say during the drafting of the agreement. When both the bride and groom feel they have been heard, this will curb negative feelings and allow them to move forward as a couple.

 

Agreements May Be Reached Faster

When mediation is absent during the drafting of a premarital contract, the parties or their opposing attorneys may quibble for days over small details. Not only does this put the wedding on hold, it creates stress for both the bride and groom as they try to make their fiancée see their side of things. When an impartial mediator who has both of their best interests in mind is present at the creation of the agreement, he or she will be able to settle these details faster by communicating the needs of the other party in a new or different light. As a result, agreements can be reached quicker and with fewer spats.

 

Agreeing on Mediation

Prenuptial mediation benefits both parties during the drafting of an agreement, especially when it comes to reducing stress and misunderstandings. A professional mediator with backgrounds in both law and psychology will help the bride and groom come to fully informed and durable decisions about their prenuptial agreement.