A lot of high net worth couples execute a prenuptial agreement prior to getting married. A prenuptial agreement can be a tool that allows partners to set expectations for the marriage and guidance for the divorce. In many cases, it is used to protect income or property in some way.
The well-known Duggar family is making headlines this week for more than their large number of children and unique outlook on life. One of the older Duggar children, Jill, is getting married. Her and her soon-to-be husband reportedly entered into a different kind of premarital agreement. It is known as a Covenant Marriage.
A Covenant Marriage is an option in very few states. Arkansas is one of them, accompanied by Arizona and Louisiana. The covenant addresses the relationship prior to and during the marriage. Couple’s counseling is required before walking down the aisle and in the event that the relationship hits a bump in the road during marriage.
If couples’ counselling fails and the pair decides to go through with divorce, the covenant increases the requirements for divorce. For instance, when a period of separation is required prior to divorce, Jill and her husband will have to sustain a longer period of separation.
Any type of marital agreement can have an impact on a divorce. Simply because one exists, it does not automatically mean that it will be upheld during the divorce. If an agreement is involved in your divorce considerations, consult with an experienced family law attorney.
Source: Christian Today, “Jill Duggar and Derick Dillard made an extra secure marriage covenant to make divorce even harder,” Cath Martin, Oct. 28, 2014