When Connecticut couples draft prenuptial agreements before they get married, it is important to make sure that the documents meet legal requirements. The language of such an agreement may indicate something different to what the couple intended, and this may lead to contention or even unanticipated litigation in the event of a divorce. The reality star Bethenny Frankel recently won an appeal against an earlier ruling that ordered her to pay her ex-husband almost $12,000 in temporary alimony.
The couple went their separate ways in 2012, and Frankel — who is reported to be worth approximately $55 million — has apparently since been paying her former-husband a monthly amount of $26,000 as ordered by the court. This included $12,000 in temporary maintenance, and the balance was for child support. Three of the four judges on the appeals panel ruled for reversing the prior ruling.
Reportedly, the couple’s prenuptial agreement stated that any and all claims for spousal support and/or maintenance will be waived. The three judges contended that this included all support options. Only one of the judges on the panel argued that the language in the agreement was not precise and clear, and the waiver did not include temporary maintenance.
This case underscores the problems that can arise if proper legal representation is not obtained when a prenuptial agreement is drafted. An experienced Connecticut divorce attorney can provide guidance and make sure nothing is forgotten. Furthermore, a lawyer can ensure the language of the contract reflects the client’s wishes and that it will hold up in a court of law.
Source: New York Daily News, “Bethenny Frankel doesn’t have to pay ex Jason Hoppy nearly $12G per month, appellate court rules”, Barbara Ross, March 22, 2016