I’m Getting Married—When Should I Start My Prenup?
If you’re planning a wedding, you already know how many moving parts there are—from finding the right venue to choosing a photographer to finalizing your guest list. Somewhere between cake tastings and seating charts, you might also be thinking about a prenup.
That thought often comes with a big question: When should we start?
The short answer? Sooner than you think. But let’s walk through the ideal timeline to make sure you feel informed, empowered, and not rushed.
6 Months (or More) Before the Wedding: Start the Conversation
This is the best time to bring up the idea of a prenup—early, calm, and without pressure. Think of it as a practical conversation about protecting both of you and establishing trust, not a prediction that something will go wrong. A good prenup is about partnership, clarity, and peace of mind—not distrust. Starting early also gives both partners time to reflect, gather information, and move at a pace that feels respectful.
3–4 Months Before: Meet With an Attorney
At this stage, it’s helpful for each person to connect with their own attorney (or at least explore whether they’ll want separate representation). Colorado does allow joint representation in some cases, but both parties must be fully informed and comfortable with that approach. This is when you’ll talk through your goals, understand what the law says, and explore what makes sense for your unique relationship.
2 Months Before: Draft and Review
This is when the document starts coming together. The attorney will prepare a draft based on what you’ve discussed. Each partner should have enough time to review the prenup carefully, ask questions, and make any changes needed. Rushed prenups—especially those signed at the last minute—can lead to tension and, in rare cases, challenges later on. Taking your time helps everyone feel grounded and respected.
1 Month Before: Finalize and Sign
Ideally, the prenup should be signed at least 30 days before your wedding. While there isn’t a minimum amount of time before the wedding that Colorado law requires prenups to be signed by, courts are more likely to uphold a prenup when both parties had ample time to review and sign without pressure. Getting this done well ahead of your big day also frees you up to focus on what matters most: celebrating your future together.
What If You’re Already Closer to the Wedding?
If you’re inside that 30-day window, don’t panic. While earlier is always better, it’s still possible to move forward thoughtfully. Just know that you may need to act quickly and be especially mindful of fairness, clarity, and full disclosure.
The Bottom Line
Prenups don’t have to be stressful or dramatic. When handled with care and respect, they can be a meaningful part of your engagement—one that strengthens your communication and builds a foundation of mutual trust.
If you’re ready to learn more or explore whether a prenup makes sense for your situation, we’d be happy to walk you through the process. At Lester Law, we focus on flat-fee, values-based planning that keeps things simple and supportive. See what our clients have to say about working with us.
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This website includes information about legal issues. Such materials are for informational purposes only and may not reflect the most current legal developments. These informational materials are not intended, and should not be taken, as legal advice on any particular set of facts or circumstances. You should contact an attorney for advice on your specific legal problems.

 
											
										

