Prenuptial Agreements Attorney in Des Moines, Iowa

Practical Legal Guidance for Prenuptial Agreements in Des Moines, Iowa

Marriage is built on trust, commitment, and a shared future—but it is also a legal partnership. As couples prepare for that next chapter, it’s natural to focus on the excitement of the relationship and plans for the future. However, just as couples plan for homes, children, and careers, it is wise to prepare for the unexpected. A prenuptial agreement isn’t about predicting failure—it’s about ensuring clarity, fairness, and peace of mind, no matter what lies ahead.

At Feitelson Law Firm, our Des Moines prenuptial agreement attorney helps individuals and couples create legally sound, practical agreements tailored to their personal and financial circumstances. Whether you are entering marriage for the first time, bringing significant assets into a relationship, blending families, or starting over after divorce, a well-drafted prenup offers protection, transparency, and long-term stability.

We take the time to understand your goals and concerns and ensure your agreement reflects your legal rights and shared values. With over 20 years of Iowa family law experience, we provide thoughtful, discreet, and reliable legal guidance before you say “I do,” starting with an initial consultation.

What Is a Prenuptial Agreement?

A prenuptial agreement—often called a “prenup”—is a legally binding contract between two individuals before marriage. This agreement outlines how certain matters will be handled during the marriage and in the event of divorce, legal separation, or the death of one spouse.

Prenuptial agreements often address:

• Division of assets and debts.
• Ownership of real estate or business interests.
• Protection of separate property.
• Spousal support (alimony) rights and obligations.
• Financial responsibilities during the marriage.
• Inheritance rights and estate planning provisions.

While prenups cannot predetermine child custody or child support—these matters are always decided based on the child’s best interests at the time of divorce—they can offer a valuable roadmap for navigating financial issues and reducing future conflict.

Who Should Consider a Prenuptial Agreement in Iowa?

Prenuptial agreements are not just for the wealthy. They are practical tools for individuals and couples in many different situations. A prenup allows both parties to enter the marriage with mutual understanding and legal protection, which can strengthen the foundation of the relationship.

You may want to consider a prenuptial agreement if:

• You own property, real estate, or significant savings.
• You have retirement accounts, investments, or business interests.
• You have children from a prior relationship and want to protect their inheritance.
• You or your partner have substantial debt.
• One partner plans to stay home to raise children or support the other’s career.
• You are remarrying and want to avoid the financial confusion of a second divorce.

Feitelson Law Firm can help you assess your personal and financial situation and determine whether a prenuptial agreement is appropriate. If so, we’ll guide you through the process with clarity and discretion.

Are Prenuptial Agreements Enforceable in Iowa?

Iowa law allows for enforcing prenuptial agreements as long as the contract is drafted correctly and fairly when signed, both parties enter into it voluntarily, and both parties fully disclose their finances.

To be enforceable in Iowa, a prenuptial agreement must:

• Be in writing and signed by both parties.
• Be executed voluntarily, without coercion or pressure.
• Be based on a full and fair disclosure of each party’s financial situation.
• Not be unconscionable (extremely unfair or one-sided).
• Not waive child support obligations (the child’s legal right).

Timing also matters. A prenup should be discussed and signed well before the wedding—not presented as a last-minute demand. Our Des Moines prenup attorney ensures that your agreement meets all legal requirements and holds up under scrutiny if challenged in court.

What Can and Cannot Be Included in a Prenuptial Agreement?

Prenuptial agreements can cover a wide range of financial matters, but there are some limits under Iowa law. The agreement cannot violate public policy or determine future child-related decisions. However, it can be a valuable tool for protecting personal and family interests.

A prenuptial agreement may include:

• How marital property and debts will be divided upon divorce.
• Whether certain assets will remain separate property.
• Protections for family-owned businesses.
• Terms for spousal support (amount, duration, or waiver).
• How joint finances will be managed during the marriage.
• Responsibilities for premarital or student loan debt.

A prenuptial agreement cannot include:

• Pre-determined child custody or parenting time.
• Waiver of child support.
• Unfair or exploitative terms.
• Personal matters unrelated to finances, including household chores or a spouse’s appearance.

We’ll help you create a thoughtful agreement outlining financial expectations while respecting Iowa’s legal standards and ethical boundaries.

How Does the Prenuptial Agreement Process Work in Iowa?

Creating a prenuptial agreement doesn’t have to be adversarial. With open communication and experienced legal support, it can be a collaborative, respectful part of your wedding-planning process.

The steps typically include:

1. Initial consultation—We meet with you to discuss your goals, financial circumstances, and concerns.
2. Financial disclosures– Both parties must fully disclose their income, assets, debts, and financial obligations.
3. Drafting the agreement– We prepare a customized, legally sound draft that reflects your intentions and complies with Iowa law.
4. Review and negotiation– The other party should have their attorney review the agreement. We work with their legal counsel to make any necessary revisions.
5. Signing—Once both parties are satisfied, the agreement is signed and becomes part of your legal record.

Starting early is key. We recommend beginning the process several months before the wedding to allow for open discussion, review, and thoughtful decision-making.

Should Both Parties Have Their Own Lawyer?

Yes, and this is especially important for enforceability. Although Iowa law does not require each party to have an attorney, having independent legal representation for both partners reduces the risk of a challenge later and demonstrates that each person understood the terms and entered the agreement voluntarily.

Feitelson Law Firm represents individuals entering prenuptial agreements and reviews proposed agreements for fairness and legality. Whether drafting or reviewing, we aim to protect your interests and ensure the process is transparent and respectful.

How Can a Des Moines Prenuptial Agreement Lawyer Help?

Creating a prenuptial agreement is not just about preparing for the possibility of divorce—it’s about entering marriage with honesty, respect, and clear expectations. An experienced attorney can ensure your agreement is fair, enforceable, and fully aligned with your values and financial goals.

Our attorney will:

• Listen to your concerns and explain your options clearly.
• Draft or review agreements with attention to detail and legal accuracy.
• Guide you through the negotiation process with discretion and professionalism.
• Help you protect separate assets, business interests, or inheritance rights.
• Provide trusted advice as part of a broader family planning strategy.

At Feitelson Law Firm, we believe in proactive planning that strengthens relationships, protects your future, and reduces the risk of costly legal disputes.

We Also Focus on the Following Areas:

• Adoptions
• Child Custody 
• Child Support
• Child Support Enforcement
• Fathers’ Rights
• Paternity
• Divorce
• Domestic Violence
• Modification of Child Support or Modification of Custody
• Spousal Support

Start Your Marriage With Clarity and Confidence: Contact Feitelson Law Firm Today

If you’re considering a prenuptial agreement, now is the time to start the conversation. With the proper legal guidance, the process can be smooth, respectful, and empowering for both partners. At Feitelson Law Firm, our Des Moines prenuptial agreement attorney is here to support your journey with sound legal advice and practical solutions.

Contact us today to schedule a confidential consultation. We’ll help you protect what matters most—your future, peace of mind, and marriage.