Prenuptial Agreement Attorney in DuPage County, Illinois
Planning a wedding is an exciting time, but it also brings important financial and legal considerations. A prenuptial agreement allows couples to enter marriage with clarity, honesty, and peace of mind. At Kulerski & Cornelison, attorney Kari Cornelison helps clients throughout DuPage County create thoughtful, enforceable prenuptial agreements that protect assets, clarify expectations, and support long-term stability.
With more than twenty years of experience in Illinois family law, Kari provides practical, calm guidance so couples can plan for the future with confidence. Her goal is to help clients protect what they have built while strengthening their relationship through clear communication and mutual understanding.
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What Is a Prenuptial Agreement in Illinois?
A prenuptial agreement, sometimes called a premarital agreement or prenup, is a written contract signed by two people before marriage. It outlines each spouse’s rights and responsibilities regarding property, assets, and debts in the event of divorce or death.
In Illinois, prenuptial agreements are governed by the Illinois Uniform Premarital Agreement Act. To be enforceable, an agreement must:
- Be in writing
- Be signed voluntarily by both parties
- Include full and fair financial disclosure
A valid prenup may address how property is divided, whether spousal maintenance will be paid, and how certain assets such as real estate, savings, investments, or business interests will be treated.
While no one enters marriage expecting divorce, a well-drafted prenuptial agreement helps prevent misunderstandings and reduces uncertainty. It allows couples to make important financial decisions together instead of leaving them to a court later.
Why Couples in DuPage County Consider Prenuptial Agreements
Couples choose prenuptial agreements for many different reasons. Some want to protect assets acquired before marriage, while others want to define how future earnings or inheritances will be handled.
Prenups are especially useful when:
- One or both partners own a business or professional practice
- There are children from a prior relationship
- One spouse expects an inheritance or family-owned property
- There is a significant difference in income or assets
- Either spouse wants protection from the other’s debts
Even couples with modest assets benefit from a clear financial framework. A prenup is not only about protecting wealth. It encourages transparency, sets expectations, and often strengthens communication early in the marriage.
The Prenuptial Agreement Process in DuPage County
Creating a prenuptial agreement is a structured process that requires careful attention to detail and timing.
The process typically includes:
- An initial consultation to discuss goals and concerns
- Review of each partner’s financial situation
- Full disclosure of assets, liabilities, and income
- Drafting the agreement to reflect the couple’s intentions
- Review and execution of the agreement before the wedding
Both parties are encouraged to have independent legal representation to ensure fairness and protect enforceability. Signing well in advance of the wedding date is important, as last-minute agreements can raise concerns about pressure or lack of time to review.
Kari ensures the process is efficient, transparent, and respectful, while complying with all Illinois legal requirements.
What a Prenuptial Agreement Can Cover
Prenuptial agreements in Illinois can address a wide range of financial matters, including:
- Division of marital and non-marital property
- Ownership and management of businesses or investments
- Spousal maintenance rights and obligations
- Responsibility for debts incurred before or during marriage
- Inheritance rights and estate planning considerations
- Life insurance or trust arrangements
Prenups cannot determine child custody or child support, as those issues are decided by courts based on the child’s best interests at the time of divorce.
Benefits of Working With a DuPage County Prenup Attorney
While Illinois law governs prenuptial agreements statewide, local court practices matter. Working with an attorney who regularly handles family law matters in DuPage County helps ensure your agreement meets local expectations and stands up to scrutiny.
Kari Cornelison brings more than two decades of experience to each prenup she drafts. She understands how judges evaluate enforceability, what language avoids future disputes, and how to structure agreements that are fair and practical.
Clients appreciate her ability to explain complex legal concepts in plain language and guide discussions in a way that feels collaborative rather than adversarial.
Postnuptial Agreements and Updates to Existing Prenups
If you are already married and did not sign a prenuptial agreement, you may still be able to protect your interests through a postnuptial agreement. A postnup serves a similar purpose but is signed after marriage.
Postnuptial agreements are often used following major life changes, such as:
- Starting or selling a business
- Receiving an inheritance
- Purchasing or refinancing real estate
- Changes in income or financial responsibilities
In some cases, couples revisit and update existing prenuptial agreements years into the marriage. Kari helps clients determine whether a postnuptial agreement or an updated prenup is appropriate and ensures the document remains enforceable under current Illinois law.
Avoiding Common Prenuptial Agreement Mistakes
Poorly drafted or rushed prenuptial agreements can create serious problems later. Common issues include:
- Failing to fully disclose assets or debts
- Waiting until just before the wedding to sign
- Using generic online templates that do not comply with Illinois law
These mistakes can render an agreement unenforceable. Working with an experienced family law attorney helps avoid these pitfalls and ensures both parties are protected.
Why Choose Kulerski & Cornelison
Kari Cornelison has dedicated her legal career exclusively to family law. From her Oak Brook office, she serves clients throughout DuPage County, including Naperville, Wheaton, Downers Grove, Hinsdale, Clarendon Hills, Lombard, and surrounding communities.
Her approach is grounded in empathy, honesty, and practicality. She believes planning for your future should feel empowering rather than stressful. Whether you are preparing for marriage or revising an existing agreement, Kari provides the clarity and guidance needed to make informed decisions.
Contact a Prenuptial Agreement Attorney in DuPage County
If you are planning to marry in DuPage County, a prenuptial agreement can help protect both you and your partner. Attorney Kari Cornelison will explain your options, outline the process, and help you create an agreement that reflects your relationship and long-term goals.
Contact Kulerski & Cornelison today to schedule a confidential consultation at the Oak Brook office and learn how a customized prenuptial agreement can give you peace of mind and a strong foundation for marriage.
