Relationship Property

Protect your assets for you and your loved ones

A relationship property agreement, also called a prenuptial agreement or a contracting out agreement in NZ, records how relationship property will be split if you separate or if your marriage, de facto relationship or civil union ends. If you are unsure whether you need a relationship property agreement, give us a call and we can advise on how to best protect you in a confidential and practical manner.

“Having a relationship property agreement means one less thing to worry about.”

Most people think a relationship property agreement is just for those potentially marrying a gold-digger but while that’s a very valid reason, it’s not the only reason to get a relationship property agreement. A relationship property agreement, prenup or contracting out agreement can provide clarity around the division of relationship property if a relationship ends. Fingers crossed that’s not the case for you, but it’s a good idea to protect your assets in case things do head south. Dividing up debt, property, and assets on paper prior to moving in with your partner, or entering into a marriage or civil union can save a lot of stress in the case of relationship breakdown.

Say you have a special tea set passed down from your grandmother – that’s something you’d want to ensure you get to keep if your relationship ends. Ditto a property left to you as an inheritance. A relationship property agreement helps spell these things out, right from the start.

We suggest you discuss a relationship property agreement as soon as you realise you want to make a long term commitment to each other. Once you’ve both agreed in principle to the process, get legal help as soon as possible.

Relationship property agreements are becoming more common in NZ. It’s beneficial for both parties in terms of knowing where they stand if things don’t work out. If you are not sure whether you need one, give us a call and let’s discuss your circumstances, confidentially.