Marriage later in life can be a beautiful new beginning. Whether it’s your second time down the aisle, a fresh start after raising children, or a joyful chapter in retirement, love can bloom at any age. But unlike younger couples, older partners often bring more complex financial and family dynamics into the relationship.
That’s why a premarital agreement—also called a prenuptial agreement—can be a smart and caring part of your St. Augustine estate planning strategy.
What Makes a Premarital Agreement Important for Older Adults?
As we age, we tend to accumulate more—homes, retirement savings, life insurance policies, and even businesses. You might also have obligations like spousal support from a previous relationship or financial goals that include supporting children or grandchildren.
Without a clear legal plan, Florida’s default laws could determine how your property is distributed upon death or divorce, potentially leading to outcomes that don’t reflect your wishes. A premarital agreement gives you and your partner the power to define your own terms—clearly, fairly, and legally.
Even Royalty Values Personal Space and Planning Ahead
Interestingly, even King Charles and Queen Camilla are reported to have made thoughtful arrangements before their marriage—including an agreement for Queen Camilla to keep her private home, Ray Mill House. This decision allowed them both to maintain independence, personal routines, and cherished family spaces. It also helped blend their lives with clarity and mutual respect. Their story serves as a reminder that planning ahead—whether you’re royalty or living in St. Augustine—can strengthen relationships and protect what matters most. A premarital agreement can support both love and legacy in practical, meaningful ways.
What Does a Premarital Agreement Typically Include?
A premarital agreement isn’t about mistrust. It’s about clarity and planning. Here are some common topics older couples in St. Augustine often address:
What’s Separate and What’s Shared?
- Identifying separate property, such as a home you owned before marriage or an inheritance you received.
- Outlining how jointly acquired property—such as assets or income earned during marriage—will be handled.
How Are Debts Managed?
- Clarifying whether debts incurred before or during the marriage remain individual or become shared responsibilities.
What Happens After Death?
- Protecting children from previous relationships by ensuring their inheritance is clearly outlined.
- Coordinating your agreement with wills, trusts, and beneficiary designations to avoid surprises.
Will There Be Spousal Support?
- Setting terms for alimony or agreeing to waive it altogether, depending on your mutual understanding.
How Does a Premarital Agreement Fit Into My Estate Plan?
A premarital agreement can be a helpful piece of a comprehensive estate plan. For older couples in St. Augustine, this often means combining the agreement with updated estate documents—like wills, powers of attorney, and trusts—to make sure your entire plan works together smoothly.
When done right, this kind of planning does more than protect your finances. It protects your legacy—helping ensure that what you’ve built in life supports the people you care about most. Read more on estate planning in our article, Why Is Estate Planning Important?
Can Premarital Agreements Actually Strengthen a Relationship?
Yes! Talking about finances can be uncomfortable at first, but it’s one of the most important conversations a couple can have. A premarital agreement encourages honest discussions about:
- Retirement goals
- Long-term care needs
- Expectations for supporting children or grandchildren
- Debt and assets
Instead of weakening a bond, these conversations often build trust and create shared understanding from the start.
Do Both Partners Need Their Own Attorney?
Absolutely. Each person should have their own legal advocate to review the agreement. This ensures that the document is:
- Clear and understood by both parties
- Voluntary (not signed under pressure)
- In line with Florida’s legal requirements
Working with an attorney familiar with St. Augustine estate planning ensures your premarital agreement fits your unique needs and meets local legal standards.
Planning a Wedding in St. Augustine? Make Premarital Planning Part of the Celebration
Including a premarital agreement in your estate planning is an act of love—not only for your partner but for your family as well. It shows respect, transparency, and a deep commitment to protecting your shared future.
Whether you’re entering a new marriage or blending families, E.P.P.G. Law can help you take the next step with confidence and care. Request a consultation to begin your plan.
Key Takeaways
- Older couples face unique financial complexities: Premarital agreements protect separate assets, retirement savings and family inheritances.
- State laws may not align with your wishes: Without a premarital agreement, default rules could override personal intentions.
- Premarital agreements prevent family disputes: Clear terms protect adult children and reduce conflict after death or divorce.
- Open communication strengthens relationships: Discussing financial expectations fosters honesty and trust before marriage. Read more on why communication is important in our article, Communication is Key in Generational Estate Planning.
- Legal guidance ensures enforceability: Independent attorneys for each party help create a firm, fair and binding agreement.
References: American College of Trust and Estate Counsel (ACTEC) (Nov. 5, 2020) “What Is a Prenuptial Agreement?” and Hello! Magazine (April 2025) “King Charles and Queen Camilla’s Separate Homes: Was a Marital Agreement Involved?”