In Florida, prenuptial agreements are often described online or in casual conversation as “simple,” “basic,” or “standard.” That description can be misleading.
While a prenuptial agreement can be a powerful planning tool, there is nothing automatic, one-size-fits-all, or quick about doing it properly. In reality, every valid prenuptial agreement requires thoughtful planning, full financial transparency, careful drafting, and—most importantly—time.
This article is for general informational purposes only and is not legal advice.
There Is No Such Thing as a “Standard” Prenup
Florida law does not recognize a template or default prenuptial agreement. Each agreement must reflect:
The specific financial circumstances of both parties
Their individual goals, concerns, and expectations
The timing of the wedding
The level of financial complexity involved
A prenup for a young couple with modest assets will look very different from one involving:
Business ownership
Real estate portfolios - Inheritances or expected inheritances
Children from prior relationships
Significant income disparities
Calling a prenup “standard” ignores the reality that every relationship—and every financial picture—is unique.
Full Financial Disclosure Is Not Optional
One of the most common reasons prenuptial agreements are challenged in Florida is insufficient financial disclosure.
A properly prepared prenup requires both parties to fully and fairly disclose:
Assets
Debts
Income
Liabilities
This process alone takes time. Gathering documentation, valuing assets, and ensuring accuracy is not something that can be responsibly rushed.
Without meaningful disclosure, an agreement may later be questioned or invalidated—precisely the opposite of what most couples hope to achieve.
Negotiation Is a Process, Not a Checkbox
A prenuptial agreement is not simply drafted and signed. It is typically negotiated.
Negotiation may involve:
Revising financial terms
Clarifying property rights
Discussing future expectations
Addressing spousal support provisions
These conversations can be emotional, sensitive, and nuanced. They deserve adequate time and space. Rushed negotiations—especially close to a wedding date—can raise concerns about pressure or lack of meaningful choice.
Timing Matters More Than People Realize
One of the biggest misconceptions about prenuptial agreements is that they can be handled at the last minute.
In practice, signing a prenup days—or even weeks—before a wedding can create legal and practical risks. Courts look closely at timing when evaluating whether an agreement was entered into voluntarily.
Starting early allows:
Thoughtful financial disclosure
Real negotiation
Careful drafting and review
Reduced stress during wedding planning
A prenup should support a marriage, not overshadow the weeks leading up to it.
Thoughtful Drafting Is Critical
Prenuptial agreements are legal contracts governed by Florida law. Precise language matters.
Poorly drafted agreements can lead to:
Ambiguity
Conflicting interpretations
Litigation instead of clarity
What appears “simple” on paper can become very complicated later if terms are unclear or internally inconsistent.
The Bottom Line
Prenuptial agreements are not:
Simple
Standard
Boilerplate
Quick
When done correctly, they require transparency, communication, careful drafting, and—above all—time.
Understanding this upfront helps couples set realistic expectations and approach the process with the seriousness it deserves.
If you are considering a prenuptial agreement in Florida, starting the conversation early is one of the most important steps you can take.
This blog is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Reading this article does not create an attorney-client relationship.
If you are in need of a prenuptial agreement, schedule your consultation today with Nicole Alvarez Law PA.