Can You Amend a Postnuptial Agreement?

Creating a postnuptial agreement after marriage is a great way to protect yourself and your assets in the event of a divorce. While thinking about divorce after saying “I do” isn’t top of mind for most couples, a postnup provides transparency and understanding in your marriage. So let’s say you have established a postnup, but now several years have passed and your situation has changed. Are you still bound and tied to the original postnup, or can you amend a postnuptial agreement to reflect current circumstances?

Can a postnuptial agreement be amended?

Yes. Like a prenup, a postnup can also be edited and amended after it has been created. Situations change, and life happens. Certain events that might make it necessary to update an existing postnuptial agreement include:

• Having children
• Purchasing new property
• Starting up a new business
• Receiving a large inheritance

Likewise, you can update your postnuptial agreement if you or your spouse has acquired a new debt and you want to make sure you have a legally binding agreement in place detailing who that responsibility will go to in the event of a divorce. Postnuptial agreements are tailored specifically to the needs of both spouses involved, and no two are alike. They are created and modified to reflect the unique circumstances and desires of each respective party. 

In order to make any amendments, both parties must agree on the changes being made. However, there are circumstances that would prohibit making any modifications to an existing postnup. These situations include if the couple is currently separated or seeking a divorce. Additionally, if the amendments being made would adversely affect any children involved, those changes would not be possible to make. The postnup, just like a prenup, can even be revoked if both parties mutually agree on getting rid of it.

How do you amend a postnuptial agreement?

The most important thing to do in order to make an amendment to your existing postnuptial agreement is to consult with a trusted attorney. Here at Lonich Patton Ehrlich Policastri, we have a team of dedicated attorneys with the expertise to navigate these matters. Since postnuptial agreements (and amendments made to them) can sometimes be difficult to enforce, it is imperative to have a skilled attorney guide you through the process in order to ensure that you have an enforceable document that will hold up in court and also satisfies the desires of both parties. We are one of the most prominent firms in the Bay Area and have the resources and experience to help guide you and your family. If you have questions about creating or amending a postnuptial agreement, give us a call today at 408-553-0801 or fill out our online form here for a free 30-minute consultation. 

Disclaimer: this article does not constitute a guarantee, warranty, or prediction regarding the outcome of your legal matter.