Prenuptial Agreement Attorney in Cook County, Illinois
Getting married is an exciting milestone, but it also comes with important financial and legal considerations. A prenuptial agreement gives couples the opportunity to start their marriage with transparency, clarity, and mutual understanding. For many couples in Cook County, a prenup provides peace of mind by addressing financial expectations before marriage, rather than leaving those decisions to a court later.
At Kulerski & Cornelison, attorney Kari Cornelison helps individuals and couples throughout Cook County create enforceable, thoughtfully drafted prenuptial agreements. With more than twenty years of experience in Illinois family law, Kari provides practical guidance that helps clients protect assets, manage risk, and enter marriage with confidence.
Understanding Prenuptial Agreements in Illinois
A prenuptial agreement, also known as a premarital agreement or prenup, is a written contract signed by two people before marriage. It outlines how certain financial matters will be handled if the marriage ends in divorce or upon the death of a spouse.
Illinois prenuptial agreements are governed by the Illinois Uniform Premarital Agreement Act. To be valid and enforceable, a prenup must:
- Be in writing
- Be signed voluntarily by both parties
- Include full and fair disclosure of assets and debts
A properly drafted agreement may address property division, spousal maintenance, debt responsibility, and the treatment of specific assets such as real estate, investments, or business interests.
Rather than planning for divorce, many couples view a prenup as a planning tool. It reduces uncertainty, prevents future disputes, and allows couples to make financial decisions together while communication is open and cooperative.
Why Cook County Couples Choose Prenuptial Agreements
Couples pursue prenuptial agreements for a wide range of reasons. Some want to protect assets acquired before marriage, while others want clarity about how finances will be handled during the marriage.
Prenups are especially common when:
- One or both partners own a business or professional practice
- There is a significant difference in income or assets
- One partner expects an inheritance or family property
- Either party has children from a prior relationship
- One or both partners want protection from existing debts
Even couples without substantial assets often benefit from a prenup. Establishing clear expectations around finances can strengthen trust and reduce conflict down the road.
The Prenuptial Agreement Process in Cook County
Creating a prenuptial agreement requires careful planning, proper timing, and legal guidance.
The process typically involves:
- An initial consultation to discuss goals and concerns
- Review of each party’s financial situation
- Complete disclosure of assets, liabilities, and income
- Drafting an agreement that reflects the couple’s intentions
- Independent review and signing before the wedding
Both parties are encouraged to have their own attorneys review the agreement. This helps ensure fairness and reduces the risk of enforceability challenges later. Timing also matters. Signing well in advance of the wedding helps avoid claims of pressure or rushed decision-making.
Kari Cornelison works closely with couples to keep the process efficient, respectful, and compliant with Illinois law.
What a Prenuptial Agreement Can Address
Prenuptial agreements in Illinois can cover a broad range of financial issues, including:
- Classification and division of marital and non-marital property
- Ownership and control of businesses or investments
- Spousal maintenance rights and limitations
- Responsibility for debts incurred before or during marriage
- Inheritance rights and estate planning considerations
- Life insurance and trust provisions
Prenups cannot determine child custody or child support. Illinois courts decide those issues based on a child’s best interests at the time of divorce.
Advantages of Working With a Cook County Prenup Attorney
While prenuptial agreements are governed by state law, local experience matters. Working with an attorney who regularly practices in Cook County ensures your agreement is drafted with enforceability in mind.
Kari Cornelison understands how Cook County judges review prenuptial agreements and what factors can lead to challenges if an agreement is later enforced. Her experience allows her to draft clear, balanced provisions that protect clients while minimizing the risk of future disputes.
Clients appreciate her ability to explain legal concepts in plain language and guide sensitive financial conversations in a calm, professional manner.
Postnuptial Agreements and Revising Existing Prenups
If you are already married and did not sign a prenuptial agreement, a postnuptial agreement may offer similar protections. Postnups are signed after marriage and can help couples clarify financial responsibilities or protect assets following major life changes.
Postnuptial agreements are often used when couples:
- Start or sell a business
- Receive an inheritance
- Purchase or refinance property
- Experience significant changes in income
Some couples also choose to revisit and update existing prenuptial agreements as their financial circumstances evolve. Kari can help determine whether a postnuptial agreement or updated prenup is appropriate and ensure it complies with current Illinois law.
Avoiding Common Prenuptial Agreement Pitfalls
Prenuptial agreements must be handled carefully. Common mistakes include:
- Incomplete or inaccurate financial disclosure
- Signing too close to the wedding date
- Using generic online templates that fail to meet Illinois requirements
These issues can make an agreement vulnerable to challenge. Working with an experienced family law attorney helps ensure your prenup is properly drafted and enforceable.
Why Choose Kulerski & Cornelison
Kari Cornelison has devoted her career exclusively to family law. From her Oak Brook office, she serves clients throughout Cook County, including Chicago and surrounding communities.
Her approach emphasizes clarity, fairness, and practicality. She believes planning for the future should feel empowering, not adversarial. Clients value her experience, attention to detail, and commitment to protecting their long-term interests.
Contact a Prenuptial Agreement Attorney in Cook County
If you are planning to marry in Cook County, a prenuptial agreement can help protect both you and your partner. Attorney Kari Cornelison will walk you through your options, explain the process, and help you create an agreement that reflects your values and financial goals.
Contact Kulerski & Cornelison today to schedule a confidential consultation and learn how a customized prenuptial agreement can provide security and peace of mind as you begin your marriage.
