Asking for a prenuptial agreement sounds like a great idea — until it actually comes out of your mouth. At that point, you realize that your partner is confused and may question your intentions.

Although asking for a prenuptial agreement is easier said than done, it’s something you should bring to light as far in advance of your wedding day as possible. Once you clear the air with your partner, you can then work together on the next steps.

Here are several mistakes you want to avoid when asking for a prenuptial agreement:

  • Telling your partner they have no choice: You can’t make someone sign a prenuptial agreement, and you shouldn’t use this as a scare tactic. Have a real conversation about the pros and cons of a prenuptial agreement, as opposed to issuing demands.
  • Hiding your true feelings: If there’s a reason why you want a prenuptial agreement, don’t hesitate to share your feelings with your partner. For instance, you may have witnessed a divorce first-hand in the past and realize that a prenuptial agreement can help reduce the stress associated with the process.
  • Cramming everything into one conversation: Creating a prenuptial agreement is truly important, so don’t try to get it over with as quickly as possible. It typically takes several conversations to settle on the final details.

You don’t want to do anything to upset your partner, so you may have some fears about asking for a prenuptial agreement. When you understand the process, your legal rights and how to approach the conversation, it’s much easier to get on the same page. And once that happens, you can work together to create an agreement that suits both of you.