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Gevurtz Menashe

PDX 503.227.1515
WA 360.823.0410

Since 1982.

Prenuptial and Postnuptial Agreements

Serving Oregon & Washington

Helping You Create a More Solid Foundation

Clear lines of communication and expectation-setting are helpful in any scenario. They’re especially valuable in the realm of relationships. This is one reason prenuptial, postnuptial, cohabitation and domestic partnership agreements (sometimes collectively referred to as “relationship agreements”) are worth considering.

In fact, relationship agreements are growing in popularity. Couples use these plans to protect and distribute their assets when their marriages end — either by death or divorce. Having terms spelled out in black and white can ease the transition.

At Gevurtz Menashe, we’ve worked with countless clients to craft relationship agreements. With over 40 years in this field, you can count on us to skillfully represent your interests when creating your premarital, post-marital, cohabitation or domestic partnership agreement.
 

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We Are Experts in Relationship Agreements


We know it’s not the most romantic item on the list, but having a relationship agreement is arguably one of the most practical. As family law and estate planning attorneys, we can facilitate the process so that you have a contract in place that brings comfort and ease to your head and your heart.

The number of prenuptial agreements is on the rise, according to a recent survey. Similarly, we’re also seeing an increase in requests for postnuptial agreements as well as domestic partnership agreements. No matter which type of agreement suits your situation, Gevurtz Menashe can help you construct a sensible financial foundation for your relationship — an agreement that both parties can equally and willingly endorse.

What Is a Prenup?

Prenups, or prenuptial or premarital agreements, are financial contracts made between the two engaged parties prior to the marriage. It establishes certain rules about how assets or debts will be divided if the marriage dissolves.

Prenups Can

  • Detail the division of assets and debts
  • Address alimony or spousal support issues
  • Protect each spouse from their partner’s debts and liabilities that may have been incurred prior to the marriage or solely by a spouse during the marriage
  • Safeguard family heirlooms and inheritance
  • Be used in conjunction with asset protection plans and estate planning documents
  • Define what will be divided and how upon divorce or death of one or both spouses

What Is a Postnup?

Post-marital agreements — also called postnuptial agreements or postnups — cover the same issues as premarital agreements. However, postnups are negotiated and signed by already-married couples.

Post-marital agreements have gained traction lately. Couples utilize this tool to provide predictability in the handling of inheritances or gifts received during a marriage or in the allocation of their business interests. Sometimes, the marriage has endured a rough patch but the spouses have reconciled and wish to formalize any new understanding about financial issues they‘ve reached.

What Is a Domestic Partnership Agreement?

A domestic partnership agreement is akin to a premarital agreement. It’s used by parties who do not intend to marry or who intend to register a domestic partnership (civil union) with the state.

Like a prenup, a domestic partnership agreement enables a couple to keep finances and debts separate. It can be an effective protection plan should the domestic partners split up or a partner passes away. Learn more about domestic partnerships here. 

When You Might Need a Prenup or Postnup

A relationship agreement may be appropriate in a variety of circumstances. For example, a pre- or postnup could be helpful if one or both individuals have:
  • Significant or complex assets
  • Significant debts
  • Children or other dependents
  • A business
  • Stake in a sizeable family trust
  • Multiple jurisdictions (like countries) to accommodate


Prenup, Postnup, and Domestic Partnership Agreement Benefits

There are many benefits to having nuptial agreements. They help clarify financial rights, reduce conflict in case of divorce, and preserve family inheritance.
 

Work with Gevurtz Menashe Attorneys for Your Relationship Agreement

Do you need a lawyer for a prenup, postnup, or domestic partnership agreement? There are so many intricacies and variables at play that it’s always a good idea to hire qualified legal counsel, like us.
 

Dedicated to Exceptional Quality

In our 30+ years of operation, we’ve consistently demonstrated our unwavering commitment to clients and success. Our diligent efforts help achieve optimal outcomes. You get a better relationship agreement, one that’s more apt to be fair and flawless.

Experience Less Stress

One of the best perks of a done-for-you relationship agreement is having less to worry about. With fewer things on your to-do list, you can spend more time and effort concentrating on your special someone instead of decoding the legalese.

Personalized, Expert Attention

You get the support and service of our knowledgeable and caring team from Day 1. If you have questions, need advice on aspects of your agreement, or want a bit of assistance with the prenup form — we’re here for you.

A Testament to Our Work

“My ex tried to go after me for "hiding" assets, which I didn't. My team at Gevurtz Menashe advised me well and proved my innocence against an unreasonable and often opposing counsel. They were professional and always looked for the most reasonable way to end things quickly even though the opposing counsel only wanted to prolong the litigation regardless of the outcome.”
-Don Ollila
 

    

Attorneys

  • Erica Aquadro Erica Aquadro Associate
    Erica Aquadro

    Erica Aquadro

    Associate
    Erica enjoys helping people find resolution in their lives. Whether she's dealing with a high conflict custody case or difficult property, business and support issues, Erica brings her keen ability to ask the right questions, listen with an open mind, and use that information to form practical advice and guidance through her legal counsel. Guided by her people-centered compassionate nature, Erica is the ultimate team player helping clients understand the complex legal process, define their own futures, and ultimately bring peace of mind to each person or family she has the opportunity to counsel. 

    When she’s not working, you’ll likely find Erica hiking with her husband and kids, reading, or traveling. Her favorite words to live by are guided by the former first lady, “When they go low, we go high.”

     
  • Tiffany Jensen Tiffany Jensen Shareholder
    Tiffany Jensen

    Tiffany Jensen

    Shareholder
    Tiffany helps her clients navigate through the difficult emotional, financial and social changes that surface in complicated interpersonal relationships. She provides practical guidance and thoughtful solutions to minimize and resolve disputes. Working with compassion and understanding during all phases of a family law case, she focuses on a common sense application of the law. She strives to provide personal and practical solutions to challenging legal problems. Tiffany received her Bachelor of Science and Juris Doctor from the University of Idaho. She is admitted to practice law in Oregon, Washington and Idaho.

    When not helping her clients with practical, compassionate solutions to their family law issues, Tiffany loves spending time with her family and friends. She also enjoys cooking, snowboarding, Chicago Bears football and soccer, whether she's on the field herself or watching others. She appreciates the benefits that come with living in the Pacific Northwest.
Meet our entire team!

What to Expect During a Consultation

Developing a relationship agreement is a process. While there are several steps, we guide you through from start to finish so you’re confident in the end results.

Here’s the basic roadmap for creating a prenup, postnup, or domestic partnership agreement:

FAQ

  • What cannot be included in a prenup?

    What cannot be included in a prenup?

    In Oregon and Washington, prenups can’t address child custody/support, illegal terms, extreme one-sidedness, or spousal support waivers. Additionally, prenup agreements must not encourage divorce, involve immoral activities, focus on personal lifestyle, or lack full financial disclosure. Hire a seasoned prenuptial agreement lawyer for personalized information.
     

  • Does a prenup cover all your assets and money?

    Does a prenup cover all your assets and money?

    A prenup in Oregon and Washington must be based on full and accurate financial disclosures from both parties. However, the agreement itself doesn’t have to cover all assets and financial matters. A qualified postnuptial agreement lawyer will be able to give you details suited to your needs.

  • How long does it take to create a prenup and postnup?

    How long does it take to create a prenup and postnup?

    It varies depending on complexity and negotiation. Typically, creating a pre-or postnup takes several weeks to a few months because both parties need to engage independent legal counsel and ample time to review, negotiate, and finalize the agreement.

  • How long do prenups and postnups last?

    How long do prenups and postnups last?

    They generally remain in effect throughout the marriage unless amended or revoked by both parties. Legal changes or significant life events may prompt review or modification.

Our Locations

Portland

Vancouver

Engage Gevurtz Menashe, the Perfect Union of Expertise & Experience

Even when two people love and commit to each other, they still need to protect their assets and finances. Taking steps to ensure stability in the relationship and security should that relationship end can be a smart move — one we can help you with. With more than three decades of practicing family law, you can rely on us to create your prenup, postnup, or domestic partnership agreement. Contact us today to schedule a consultation at our Portland (503-227-1515) or Vancouver (360-823-0410) office.