Matrimonial agreements

A Pre-nuptial Agreement suitable for a New Zealand couple.

The property rights of both married and de facto couples (including same-sex couples) who have lived together for three years have been governed by the same equal-sharing rules in the Property (Relationship) Act.

Couples have the option of either making their own property agreement (referred to as 'contracting out' of the Act), in which case their property will be divided in ways that they specify in the agreement, or to not make any agreement of their own, in which case they will automatically be covered by the equal-sharing rules in the Act.

A couple who decides to contract out of the Act will need to follow some special procedural rules (including each person getting independent legal advice) in order for the agreement to be valid.

This Pre-nuptial Agreement (agreement to 'contract out' of the Property Relationships Act) allows you to take control and reach an agreement with your partner regarding the division of wealth between youselves. It allows you to manage your own legal matters in a cost effective manner. Guideline & notes are provided. Also see the HowTo article 'How to enter into a property agreement'.

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