A pre-marital agreement is a financial settlement to protect each person’s welfare in case the marriage breaks-down. It is entered into before you marry. These agreements avoid the pain of having to go through financial matters at the time of break-up, when emotions could be running high and cloud issues.

Although they are not enforceable by the Court under English law, an increasing number of couples are choosing to have them – particularly for excluding inherited assets. However, it is worth noting that recent court decisions have stated that a well-drafted agreement may have a significant effect in any divorce settlement.

If you’re confused about any legal jargon or legal instruction, see our ‘Glossary of Divorce and Family Law Terms’ in our ‘Store Cupboard’.