Sunday, July 25, 2010

Pitfalls of Do-It-Yourself-Prenups

Why Hire a Lawyer to Draft Your Prenuptial Agreement?

A prenuptial agreement can be a useful tool to protect monetary assets and other personal property in the event of a divorce. However, if they are not filed or executed correctly, you may lose a significant amount of the assets intended for your children.

The law firm of Polizzotto and Polizzotto, LLC, assists clients in Brooklyn, New York City, Long Island, and surrounding areas in drafting and negotiating prenuptial agreements. Our experienced attorneys help ensure your interests are protected before, during, and after a marriage, if necessary. Contact us today for a free consultation.

Protect Your Assets for Your Children

Whether you own a small business or have a large inheritance, it may important that these assets remain in the family, especially if you have children from a previous marriage. Also specific pieces of personal property can be protected; you can ensure a grandmothers wedding ring, an heirloom china set, or antique furniture stays with specific children. Having an attorney draft the prenuptial document can reduce your worries about the provisions and the possibility of the document being declared invalid.

Reduce the Likelihood of Expensive Litigation

A do-it-yourself prenuptial agreement may be quicker and cheaper in the short term, but it could result in long, expensive court battles in the future. If your assets are worth protecting, then it is worth your time and expense to hire an attorney.

Before settling for a do-it-yourself prenuptial agreement, talk to a lawyer at our firm. Our principle attorney,Alfred Polizzotto III, is an experienced lawyer and certified financial planner. He will discuss with you the value of your assets and the importance of protecting them for your children, sisters and brothers, or business partner.

Grounds for Divorce - FAQ

How long must I reside in New York before I can begin my divorce action?
An action for divorce may be maintained only when:

  • The husband and wife were married in New York, and either of them is a resident of New York when the action is begun and has been a resident of New York for a continuous period of one year immediately before the commencement of the action, or
  • The parties have resided in New York as husband and wife, and either of them is a resident of New York when the action is begun and has been a resident of New York for a continuous period of one year immediately preceding the beginning of the action, or
  • The grounds for divorce occurred in New York, and either party has been a resident of New York for a continuous period of at least one year immediately before the beginning of the action, or
  • The grounds for divorce occurred in New York, and both parties are residents of New York at the time of the commencement of the action, or
  • Either spouse has been a resident of New York for a continuous period of at least two years immediately preceding the commencement of the action.
Contact the offices of Polizzotto & Polizzotto, LLC at www.polizzotto.com for more information