How to review a prenup before you sign it

A prenup is one of the most lopsided documents you'll ever be handed, and the consequences last decades. Before you sign, check these things — while you can still negotiate.

Was there full financial disclosure?

A prenup generally needs both people to fully disclose their finances. If the other side's assets or income are vague or missing, that's a problem — and it can affect whether the agreement holds up later.

How one-sided is it, really?

Read who gets what in every scenario. Terms that leave one person with almost nothing are a red flag, both for fairness and for enforceability.

What rights are you giving up?

Spousal support, a share of property, claims to a business or a home — a prenup often waives these in dense language. Make sure you understand each waiver in plain terms.

Look for undefined or conflicting terms

Vague definitions and clauses that contradict each other create exactly the kind of ambiguity that causes fights later.

Don't sign under pressure

Being handed a prenup days before the wedding, with no time to review or get your own advice, is itself a factor courts consider. Give yourself time and your own attorney.

Don't spot it all alone

Upload your prenup and ScrubMyCase flags every one of these automatically — in plain English, with the exact quotes. Free preview.

Scrub my document

Questions

Should I get my own lawyer for a prenup?

Yes — your own attorney, not your partner's. Each side having independent advice also helps the agreement hold up. This is informational, not legal advice.

Can I check a prenup myself first?

You can get a head start. ScrubMyCase scrubs a prenup for one-sided terms, undefined language, and validity red flags so you know exactly what to ask about before you pay for an hour of legal time.

This guide is general information, not legal advice. For your specific situation, talk to a licensed attorney.

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