Illinois Family Law Insider

The #1 Prenup Mistake Illinois Couples Regret Too Late - #19

Sterling Lawyers Episode 19

Why should you consider a prenuptial agreement in Illinois? In this Illinois Family Law Insider episode, Sterling Hughes Managing Partner Katie VanDeusen sits down with Senior Associate Ryan Shope to break down everything you need to know about prenups. They explain how these agreements function as financial insurance policies that provide control over your future rather than leaving critical decisions to judges. 

We explore:

  • How prenups override Illinois's presumption that all property acquired during marriage is marital
  • Various strategies for limiting or customizing spousal support arrangements
  • What you can and cannot include (hint: nothing about future children)
  • Critical enforceability requirements including full disclosure and separate representation
  • Why timing matters and the 30-day rule of thumb before your wedding
  • Real examples of how prenups prevent expensive litigation over contribution and reimbursement claims

Listen in for practical insights on Illinois prenuptial agreements, including who typically needs them, how they streamline divorce proceedings, and why they're particularly valuable for high-asset individuals, business owners, and people entering second marriages.