Love Is in the Air… But Before You Say “I Do,” Here’s What We’d Do Before Getting Married

With the news of Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce’s engagement lighting up headlines (and Swifties everywhere losing their minds), it’s safe to say love is having a major moment. But while you’re dreaming of eras tours, enchanted evenings, and happily ever afters, we’re over here thinking about the fine print of forever.

Marriage is more than rings and registry lists. It’s a legal partnership. So before (and after) you say I do, here’s what we’d recommend putting on your planning playlist:

Make Sure Your Legal Documents Reflect Your Life Together

Marriage changes your legal status, but it doesn’t automatically update your estate plan. Couples should review or create the following documents:

• A Will to designate who receives your assets and who will serve as the personal representative of your estate.
• A Revocable Living Trust to manage property and provide clear instructions if one spouse becomes incapacitated or passes away.
• A Power of Attorney for finances to allow your partner to manage your accounts and obligations if you are unable to do so.
• A Health Care Surrogate Designation to ensure your spouse or trusted loved one can make medical decisions on your behalf if needed.

These documents help eliminate confusion and protect both partners in a time of need.

What about a prenup?

While our office does not draft prenuptial agreements, they can play a valuable role in an estate plan, especially in blended families or where significant premarital assets are involved. If you already have one in place, we can help you understand how it integrates with your other planning documents.

Discuss Finances Openly and Make a Plan

Getting married often means merging lives and bank accounts. Couples should discuss how to handle income, debts, and assets.

Consider reviewing:

• Beneficiary designations on retirement accounts and life insurance policies.
  
• Whether the property will be jointly titled (with or without a right of survivorship) or held separately.
  
• Tax planning opportunities that are available to married couples.
  
• Strategies for handling existing or future debt.
  

Clear conversations now can prevent misunderstandings later.

Plan for the Unexpected

Life is full of surprises, both good and bad. Planning ahead allows you to stay in control, even when things don’t go as expected. Think about:

• What happens if one of you becomes seriously ill or injured?
  
• Do you have a plan for long-term care if needed?
  
• What kind of legacy do you want to leave behind for your family, your pets, or your favorite causes?

When you take the time to prepare, you protect each other and the life you are building together.

Take the Next Step with a Trusted Advisor

Working with an estate planning attorney is one of the best ways to make sure your legal documents are thorough, up to date, and tailored to your unique relationship. Whether you are newly engaged, planning your wedding, or already married, it’s never too early (or too late) to start planning. If you want peace of mind and a plan you can trust, we’re here to help. Book a consultation today at markmosslaw.com or call (904) 329-7242. Love is worth celebrating. But it’s also worth protecting.