The Ante Nuptial Contract
An Ante Nuptial Contract (ANC) is arguably one of the most critical documents that a person will sign in their lifetime. The consequences of the content of an ANC are immensely significant with far reaching implications for the estate of the signatories.
The ANC determines the matrimonial property regime which will govern your marriage and so needs to be finalised before the marriage day. With so many decisions to be made prior to the wedding day the ANC is often not afforded the appropriate level of priority with potentially severe consequences for your future. The mere fact that such a contract needs to be signed in the presence of a Notary as well as two competent witnesses and formally registered at your local Deed’s Office is indicative of the importance of this agreement.
Contrary to common myth, a contract of this nature should never be a standardised template which is presented to you for signing at nominal cost and devoid of specific reference to your particular estate and needs. This contract should rather be a tailored reflection of the lifestyle you choose as newlyweds. The varying costs of ANC’s should be perceived as an investment in the protection of your rights and should be viewed in light of the security it brings to your future as individuals as well as the future you will share as a couple.
Remember: Planning is everything in life:
“Someone’s sitting in the shade today because someone planted a tree a long time ago”.