Negotiating a Prenup if Your Partner Has More Money than You

 Posted on August 26, 2025 in Family Law

Marriage is about love and commitment, but when one partner has significantly more wealth than the other, this difference can create a serious issue even before the marriage starts. As a result, many couples consider prenuptial agreements to protect assets and set clear expectations before walking down the aisle. If your partner has more money than you, it is natural to wonder how to protect your own interests during the prenup process.

These agreements allow couples to decide in advance how property, debts, and spousal support will be handled if the marriage ends. 

As of August 2025, Illinois law continues to govern prenuptial agreements under the Illinois Uniform Premarital Agreement Act (750 ILCS 10). While this law is meant to protect both people in a prenup, the reality is that without a strong DuPage County, IL family lawyer on their side, a partner with less wealth can find themselves pressured into signing a prenup that seriously disadvantages them. 

With over 175 years of combined experience, our firm has seen how a carefully negotiated prenup can bring security for both partners, even with uneven finances. Let us help you negotiate yours. 

Why Would Someone With No Money Need a Prenup?

People often assume that only the wealthier spouse benefits from a prenuptial agreement. In reality, a prenup can protect the spouse with fewer assets as well. Without one, you risk being at a disadvantage in a divorce, especially if your partner’s property is largely separate and not subject to division under Illinois law.

For example, if your spouse owns a business or significant real estate before marriage, those assets may be considered separate property. A prenup could include terms ensuring that you receive fair alimony, or are guaranteed undisputed access to marital property accumulated during the marriage.

What Can Be Negotiated in a Prenup?

Prenuptial agreements can address many issues beyond simply keeping one spouse’s wealth separate. Topics may include:

• How marital property will be divided if the marriage ends.

• Whether spousal support (alimony) will be paid, and under what conditions.

• How debts will be managed, particularly if one spouse has a lot of debt.

• Rights to certain marital benefits, such as retirement accounts or insurance policies.

By addressing these questions in advance, both spouses can move forward with confidence. Even having an attorney on your side may make your future spouse more likely to have a conciliatory attitude during negotiations. 

How to Protect Yourself in Prenup Negotiations if Your Partner Has More Money

If your partner has more money than you, approach prenup negotiations carefully and do not assume that you must accept whatever terms are offered. Illinois law requires that both parties enter into the agreement voluntarily and with full financial disclosure. You have the right to completely review your partner’s assets and liabilities before signing anything.

You also should have your own legal counsel. An attorney can ensure that your interests are represented, that the agreement is fair, and that you are not signing away important rights. With experienced guidance, you can negotiate for terms that provide stability, such as spousal support or a fair share of marital property, even if you did not enter the marriage with wealth of your own.

Contact a Bloomingdale, IL Prenuptial Agreement Lawyer

If you are preparing for marriage and your partner has significantly more money than you, it is important to protect your future. Even if you think you will never get divorced, remember that prenups exist for a reason – and you deserve protection, too. 

A DuPage County family law attorney at Mevorah & Giglio Law Offices can help you negotiate a prenup that reflects your interests and safeguards your financial well-being. Call 630-932-9100 today to schedule a free consultation. We speak Spanish, Polish, and Urdu.