For gentlemen concerned with separation and divorce rates and who wish to protect current assets and income, the Premarital Agreement offers a powerful strategy.

A Premarital Agreement, also known as a prenuptial or antenuptial agreement, establishes the obligations of the spouses before marriage, and is enforceable provided that both parties fully understand all provisions, that the terms are "fair and reasonable", and the parties make full disclosure of assets beforehand. Naturally, a premarital agreement with an international fiancee will need to be translated in writing into her native language by an official-approved translator and exhibit the translator's signature and seal.

I particularly enjoy working with clients on these agreements. I'm probably one of the few USA estate planning attorneys with experience in the area of premarital agreements with international fiancees. I conduct an extensive interview and consultation with my clients and draft a customized agreement in accordance with the requirements of current state law and the Uniform Premarital Agreement Act. I believe that premarital agreements are valid and enforceable in any of the fifty states in which the husband may choose to reside.

I have an official-approved translator on retainer, and can also recommend others. I also recommend that the client pay for at least one or two appointments with a Russian or Ukrainian lawyer or other legal advisor to go over the agreement with his fiancee and explain it fully.

I have gathered some frequently asked questions about the premarital agreement process and the international fiancee from Russia and Ukraine, and set forth some pointed answers in an article which you are welcome to read:

FAQ Article on Premarital Agreements and the International Fiancee from Russia and Ukraine

I am available without charge during and after the process to answer questions and offer advice on issues such an amendments and revisions to the premarital agreement, wills, trusts, living wills, living trusts and investment planning.

As concerns fees and costs, I have carefully measured that a fair charge for my time and expertise in completing the Premarital Agreement is a flat fee of $1500.00 plus costs. The official-approved translator costs could range up to $250.00 but are usually less than that. Other USA estate planning attorneys charge well over $1500 plus costs for preparation of a premarital agreement.

Your thoughtful comments are welcome.