Premarital Agreements
Building a Strong Marriage on a Foundation of Clarity
A premarital agreement—often called a prenuptial agreement or prenup—is not a prediction of divorce. It is a thoughtful way to begin marriage with honesty, transparency, and mutual understanding.
At The Cooley Law Firm, we help couples throughout Las Vegas and Clark County create customized, fair, and legally sound premarital agreements that protect both partners while honoring the relationship.
What Is a Premarital Agreement?
A premarital agreement is a written contract made before marriage.
It defines each spouse’s financial rights and responsibilities during the marriage and if the marriage later ends by separation, divorce, or death.
Premarital Agreements May Address:
Division of property and debts
Spousal support (alimony) terms or waivers
Management of income and investments
Ownership of businesses or professional practices
Treatment of real estate and future acquisitions
Protection of premarital or family assets
Coordination with inheritance and estate planning
These agreements reduce uncertainty and help couples start marriage with shared expectations.
Why Consider a Premarital Agreement?
Premarital agreements are not just for the wealthy.
They are useful for couples who value clarity and fairness.
Common reasons include:
One or both partners own a business, home, or investments
One partner has significant debt
Either partner has children from a prior relationship
Family assets, inheritances, or trusts need protection
The couple wants clarity about future income or support
Both partners want open financial communication before marriage
A well-drafted agreement prevents misunderstandings before they arise.
Legal Requirements in Nevada
For a premarital agreement to be enforceable under NRS Chapter 123A, it must:
Be entered into voluntarily, without pressure or coercion
Include full financial disclosure by both parties
Be in writing and signed before marriage
Allow each party a fair opportunity for independent legal counsel
Be fair at the time of signing and not unconscionable
Attorney Shelly Booth Cooley ensures every agreement meets Nevada’s legal standards—protecting both the contract and the relationship.
Benefits of a Premarital Agreement
A clear, balanced agreement can:
Strengthen communication and trust
Protect businesses, inheritances, and family wealth
Clarify financial expectations during marriage
Reduce stress, conflict, and legal costs if separation occurs
Support estate planning and family stability
In short, a premarital agreement is a plan for peace of mind.
Updating a Premarital Agreement
Life changes. Finances change. Families change.
If needed, a premarital agreement can be:
Reviewed after marriage
Updated through a post-marital (postnuptial) agreement
Aligned with new assets, children, or estate plans
We help couples adapt agreements as their lives evolve.
Begin Marriage with Clarity and Confidence
A premarital agreement is a roadmap—not a warning sign.
It allows you and your partner to start marriage from a place of openness, trust, and mutual respect.
The Cooley Law Firm Approach
We combine legal precision with respect for the personal side of marriage.
Our approach emphasizes:
Transparency and neutrality for both partners
Custom drafting—no templates, every clause tailored
Collaboration, not conflict
Confidentiality and discretion throughout the process
We aim to make this conversation constructive and empowering.
Ready to Get Started?
Contact The Cooley Law Firm to schedule a confidential consultation with Shelly Booth Cooley, an experienced Las Vegas family law attorney, Certified Family Law Specialist, and Fellow of both the American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers and the International Academy of Family Lawyers.
Let’s talk about how a premarital agreement can strengthen and protect your future together.
