Planning for Certainty: Why High Net Worth Couples Should Consider a Prenuptial Agreement

By Georgina Hitchins, Family Law Specialist at OLS Solicitors

Over the past four years, I’ve worked closely with high net worth individuals across the UK—entrepreneurs, investors, landowners, professionals, and those with inherited wealth—who are preparing for marriage. One thing they all have in common is this: they understand that a strong relationship is built on trust, clarity, and thoughtful planning.

That’s exactly what a prenuptial agreement offers. It’s not about doubting the relationship—it’s about protecting the life you’ve built and the future you’re building together.

What Is a Prenuptial Agreement?

A prenuptial agreement (or “prenup”) is a legal document that sets out how a couple’s assets, property, and income will be treated if the marriage ends in divorce. It can also address debts, business interests, inheritance, and even future earnings or gifts.

For high net worth clients, it’s an essential part of financial planning—like a will or trust. It ensures that wealth, whether built up over decades or inherited, is respected and managed fairly in the event of separation.

You can read more about how finances are handled when relationships end on the official GOV.UK guidance.

Why High Net Worth Individuals Are Choosing Prenups

The more complex your financial affairs, the more vital it is to set expectations from the start. Here’s why many of my clients choose to have a prenuptial agreement:

• Asset Protection: Safeguard property, shares, or family businesses acquired before the marriage.
• Inherited Wealth: Ringfence family money or future inheritances.
• Clarity and Certainty: Avoid uncertainty and reduce the risk of prolonged disputes in the event of divorce.
• Fairness: Provide financial security for both parties, based on mutual respect and open discussion.

Tailored Agreements, Not Templates

No two relationships—or asset portfolios—are the same. That’s why I take a bespoke approach with every client. Whether you’re entering a second marriage, protecting trust income, or have international interests, I will draft an agreement that reflects your unique circumstances and values.

My role is not just legal—it’s strategic. I work closely with financial advisors, wealth managers, and family offices to ensure the prenup supports your wider estate planning goals.

Timing and Transparency Are Key

If you’re considering a prenuptial agreement, it’s important to plan ahead. Ideally, the agreement should be signed at least 28 days before the wedding. This avoids any suggestion of pressure and ensures both parties have time to reflect and take independent legal advice.

I always aim to foster open, respectful conversations between partners, helping you reach agreement without drama or delay. You can find out more about our respectful approach to family law on the Resolution Code of Practice.

What a Well-Drafted Prenup Can Include

• How pre-marital assets will be treated
• Protection of business interests and directorships
• Agreed treatment of inherited or gifted assets
• Division of jointly acquired property
• Provisions for children or dependants
• Spousal maintenance or clean break clauses

Discretion, Trust and Experience

High net worth matters require not only legal expertise, but also discretion and sensitivity. I understand that privacy and trust are just as important as technical skill. I’ve helped clients navigate these conversations with professionalism and care, ensuring both parties feel protected and heard.

Many of the couples I’ve advised have gone on to enjoy long and happy marriages—often commenting that having a prenup in place gave them a stronger foundation, not a weaker one.

Let’s Talk Confidentially about Prenuptial agreements

If you’re considering a prenuptial agreement or just want to understand your options, I’d be happy to have a confidential conversation. Whether you’re in Swindon, Llanelli, or anywhere in the UK, you’ll receive discreet, expert support tailored to your situation.

Learn more about our Prenuptial Agreement Solicitors and how we support high net worth clients with bespoke planning.

Or get to know more about who we are and meet me on our Meet the Team page.

📞 Call: 01554 756952
🌐 Visit: www.ols-solicitors.co.uk
📧 Email: [email protected]

Georgina Hitchins
Specialist in Prenuptial Agreements
OLS Solicitors