Changes to Minnesota Prenup Laws: What You Need to Know

Prenuptial agreements, commonly known as prenups, can be an important part of protecting your future and assets before entering into marriage. As of August 1st, 2023, Minnesota has updated its laws surrounding prenups. If you’re planning to sign one, it’s important to understand how these changes could affect your agreement’s validity.

At Johnson/Turner, we believe in providing clarity and reassurance during life’s most important moments. Below, we break down the two key changes to prenup laws in Minnesota and how they impact you.

Change #1: Timing of Signing the Prenup

Previously, Minnesota law required prenuptial agreements to be signed at least 24 hours before the wedding. The updated law now requires at least 7 days before your wedding day. If a prenup is signed within this 7-day window, it is presumed not valid by the court.

This new timeline is crucial because it provides both parties more time to consider the terms, ensuring that no one is rushed into making decisions that could have lasting consequences. If you’re considering a prenup, start early and allow plenty of time for discussion and revisions. At Johnson/Turner, we can guide you through this process, ensuring your prenup is legally sound and tailored to your unique needs.

Change #2: Marriage as Adequate Consideration

In the past, courts would review whether the prenuptial agreement benefited both sides—ensuring fairness in the exchange. Under the new law, the act of getting married itself is now deemed adequate consideration for anything given up in the prenup. This means as long as the marriage occurs and the prenup meets other legal requirements, courts will not evaluate whether the agreement was “fair” for both parties.

This shift emphasizes the importance of careful planning and creating a prenuptial agreement that truly reflects your wishes. Even though the courts won’t assess fairness, you still want to ensure your prenup is fair and enforceable. Johnson/Turner’s experienced legal team can help you craft a well-balanced agreement that honors your interests and protects your future.

Why These Changes Matter for You

If you’re planning a wedding and thinking about a prenuptial agreement, these new laws underscore the importance of timing and careful preparation. The 7-day rule means you’ll need to plan ahead, while the updated consideration rule ensures that as long as your marriage is valid, your prenup will be as well.

Protecting your future begins with informed decisions. At Johnson/Turner, we combine legal expertise with a commitment to empowering you. We’ll work with you to ensure that your prenup reflects your needs and complies with the latest legal requirements.

Need Help With Your Prenup? Johnson/Turner is Here for You

Navigating legal changes can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to go through it alone. At Johnson/Turner, we’re more than just legal experts—we’re your partners in planning for the future. If you have questions about your prenuptial agreement or how these new laws could impact you, our team is here to help. Let’s start a conversation today and ensure your future is as secure as possible.

Contact Johnson/Turner today to schedule a consultation. With offices across Minnesota, we’re ready to support you wherever you are in your legal journey.