Hundreds of couples in Sheffield and Yorkshire are expected to become engaged this Valentine's Day, but neglecting some of the more practical aspects of getting married can lead to problems in the future, according to Lindsey Canning, Associate in the family law team at Wake Smith & Tofields, who has seen a 200% increase in requests for pre-nuptial agreements in the last year.
When the engagement celebrations are complete and couples begin to appreciate the enormity of what is ahead in planning their wedding, little thought goes to the practical steps that must be taken in tandem with the big day.
Lindsay Canning provides her top tips to consider before the big day:
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New name, new identity: write a list of all the organisations that need to be informed of your name change, such as banks, car insurance and the passport agency, as some policy documents can take weeks to update.
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Protect against a 'big day washout'. The average wedding now costs £18,000 so protect your money and seriously consider taking out insurance.
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Where there's a will.... Marriage automatically revokes a previous will so make sure you consult your solicitor to fully understand where your assets will go should the worst happen.
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Talk pre-nups. They are not just for the rich and famous - Wake Smith & Tofields has seen a 200% increase in the number of 'ordinary couples' in Sheffield over the last twelve months, keen to sort financial matters before the big day.
Lindsey commented: "A pre nuptial agreement in particular is often neglected as couples are worried that discussing it will spoil the romance. But identifying the assets each of you is bringing into the marriage is a positive stance and can strengthen the bond between you."
For more information on family law please contact Lindsey Canning on 0114 266 6660 or email [email protected].
