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South Carolina Premarital Agreement

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PREMARITAL AGREEMENT

READ BEFORE SIGNING: IMPORTANT NOTICE: EACH PARTY TO THIS AGREEMENT AGREES THAT THEY HAVE HAD AN OPPORTUNITY TO CONSULT WITH AN ATTORNEY OF THEIR CHOICE LICENSED TO PRACTICE LAW IN THEIR STATE OF RESIDENCE (NOT THE SAME ATTORNEY) AND THAT HAVE FULLY READ, UNDERSTAND AND AGREE TO THE TERMS OF THIS AGREEMENT. EACH PARTY FURTHER AGREES THAT THEY ARE NOT ACTING UNDER DURESS OR UNDUE INFLUENCE IN EXECUTING THIS AGREEMENT AND THAT EXECUTION OF SAME IS DONE FREELY AND VOLUNTARILY.

THIS AGREEMENT, made this day of , 20 , between (Name), of (Address), (State) ("first party or Wife"), and (Name), of (Address), (State) ("second party or Husband"),

W I T N E S S E T H

WHEREAS, Husband (check all that apply):

has previously been married;

has a child or children;

has not been married; and

Wife (check all that apply):

has previously been married;

has a child or children;

has not been married.

The parties desire to enter into this agreement prior to their contemplated marriage.

WHEREAS, the parties hereto have accumulated separate estates; and

WHEREAS, the parties are about to contract marriage and execute this agreement in contemplation of marriage to be effective upon their marriage in accordance with the laws of the State of South Carolina, including any Uniform Premarital Agreement Act, or other applicable laws, adopted by the State of South Carolina; and

WHEREAS, the parties desire to enter into an agreement regarding certain properties, responsibilities, duties and obligations including but not limited to any interest, present or future, legal or equitable, vested or contingent, in real or personal property, including income and earnings; and

WHEREAS, the parties have furnished each other with a financial statement which each party acknowledges is a full and complete disclosure of substantially all of the real and personal property now owned by him or her and agree that the values are an estimate by him or her of the approximate present value of the property. All property listed is now and shall continue to be separate properties of the respective parties. Originals or copies of said financial statements are attached hereto as Exhibits "A" and "B"; and

WHEREAS, the parties desire to express in writing their agreement that, except as hereinafter specifically provided, their marriage shall not in any way change their rights, or the rights of their heirs (exclusive of the parties) or of their devisees or legatees, in the real and personal property owned or hereafter acquired by each of the parties and that said rights shall be governed by the terms of this agreement; and

NOW, THEREFORE, in consideration of the parties and of their mutual promises and agreements, they agree one with the other as follows:

(1) Each of the parties shall have full control of his or her own separate property, real, personal and mixed, wherever the property is located. Each of the parties shall have and hereby is given the right to lease, sell, convey, mortgage or otherwise dispose of their separate property and receive all monies, rents, issues, income and profits thereof without any restrictions whatever and without interference from the other party. Each of the parties shall pay his or her own debts whenever contracted and in no case shall either party be held liable for the debts of the other parties in any way.

(2) Except as otherwise expressly provided, each of the parties hereby waives, relinquishes, conveys, quitclaims, bars, discharges, surrenders and releases, and hereby agrees to waive, relinquish, convey, quitclaim, bar, discharge, surrender and release, to the other all of the following:

(a) Any and all of his or her right, title and interest of every kind and description, which he or she may have, acquire, enjoy or be seized by reason of, or on or after, their marriage, as the wife, husband, widow or widower of the other party, in the separate property of the other party, whether real, personal and mixed and wherever located; and

(b) Any and all rights to any property of the other party titled in that other parties sole name, whether before or after the marriage; and

(c) Any and all property acquired by the other party by inheritance or other means; and

(d) Any and all rights, if any, to all or a portion of the property of the other party whether by way of dower, courtesy, homestead, widow's allowance, statutory share or provision, descent, community property inheritance, succession or otherwise;

(e) His or her right, if any, granted to or vested in him or her, by statute or otherwise, to renounce, or to elect to take against, the provisions of the other party's will or any codicil thereto; and

(f) His or her right, if any, granted to or vested in him or her by statute or otherwise to act as executor or administrator of the other party's estate.

Except as otherwise expressly provided, it is the intent of the parties that this paragraph shall be construed so that each party may deal with his or her property and any trust in which he or she may have an interest as if their marriage had not taken place, and on the death of either party his or her estate and any trust in which he or she may have an interest will be administered, descend and be distributed in exactly the same way and to the same heirs, next of kin, devisees or legatees as if the other party had predeceased the party so dying. Nothing contained in this paragraph or in this agreement, however, is intended to preclude either party from voluntarily making provision for, or granting powers or rights to, the other party in and by the formers last will, a codicil thereto or otherwise.

(3) (check One)

The parties have each executed a Last Will and Testament, copies of which are attached hereto as Exhibits and . The parties agree that these Wills are in conformity with the provisions of this agreement and as consideration for this agreement, each party does hereby waive any and all objection to the terms of the said Last Will and Testament of the other and each party agrees not to contest or renounce the terms of thereof. Likewise, each party agrees not to contest or renounce any future Wills or Codicils, which are in conformity with the terms of this agreement. Initials if Selected:

OR

The parties shall not change their existing Will, if any, or make a new Will at this time, but any new Will executed shall be in conformance with the provisions of this agreement. Initials if Selected:

(4) The fact that either party (without being obligated to do so) may give, devise or bequeath to the other party property or an interest therein, or otherwise confer rights or powers on the other party, in trust or by gift or will, shall not be construed as a waiver of any provision hereof or as evidence that there is or was an agreement or understanding between the parties other than as specifically expressed herein.

(5) Each party agrees, on behalf of himself or herself and of his or her heirs, executors, administrators and assigns, that he, she or they, at the request of the other party or the latter's heirs, executors, administrators and assigns (but at the cost of the other party or his or her heirs, executors, administrators, and assigns), will make, do, execute, acknowledge and deliver any and all such further or other acts, deeds and instruments as shall be appropriate, necessary or desirable to carry in effect the intent, purpose and provisions of this agreement without question or delay, except that neither party shall be obliged to sign any mortgage, note, bond or other instrument which may subject him or her, or his or her estate and property, to personal liability.

(6) In selling, assigning, granting, releasing, conveying or otherwise dealing with the property of either party, the party whose property is being so dealt with shall be and hereby is constituted the other party's attorney-in-fact and as such shall have full power in the name of such other party or in the joint names of both parties to join in the contemplated transaction and execute documents to effect it on behalf of such other party, independently and without the consent or privity of such other party, to the same extent and as fully as if their marriage had not taken place.

(7) During the course of the marriage, all property acquired by each party in their own name shall be deemed to be part of their separate estate and by the terms hereof, each party hereby waives and relinquishes all claim to the separate estate of the other. Likewise, all property acquired during the marriage in the joint name of both parties shall be deemed to be part of their joint estates and thereby evidence their intent to grant the powers and rights to the parties as to said jointly owned property as is provided to spouses by operation of law.

(8) The parties agree that each party shall provide for the payment of their individual health care, convalescence and funeral expenses out of their separate estate so as not to be a financial burden on each other.

(9) Despite any other provisions of this instrument, this agreement shall not affect in any way the parties' rights, titles, powers, duties, discretions, immunities and interest in any property owned in joint tenancy or entirety with rights of survivorship, which they may hereafter acquire.

(10) To the extent permitted by law, this agreement shall govern the rights and obligations of the parties in the event of death of either or both parties, separation or divorce. In the event of divorce, the parties agree this agreement shall be binding on both parties and shall be incorporated into any divorce decree.

(11) Not applicable or The parties further agree that in the event of divorce, the following additional provisions shall apply notwithstanding the other provisions of this agreement:

(a) The Wife shall be entitled to receive property of Husband described as follows: [none or list property]

(b) The Husband shall be entitled to receive property of Wife described as follows: [none or list property]

(c) The following property shall be sold and the proceeds, less expenses divided equally between the parties: [none or list property]

(d) The Husband shall pay a lump sum settlement to Wife described as follows: [none or list property]

(e) The Wife shall be pay a lump sum settlement to Husband described as follows: [none or list property]

(f) The marital domicile shall be [occupied by Wife until her death or occupied by Husband until his death or sold and the proceeds divided equally between Husband and Wife.

(g) Both parties waive the right to alimony and property settlement, except as otherwise provided herein.

(12) This agreement shall be controlled, construed and given effect by and under the laws of the State of South Carolina. It is the intent of the parties that the Agreement be enforced to the fullest extent permissible under applicable laws and public policies. The invalidity, illegality, or unenforceability of any particular provision of this Agreement shall not affect the other provisions, and this Agreement shall be construed in all respects as if such invalid, illegal, or unenforceable provision had been omitted.

(13) This Agreement constitutes the entire agreement between the parties pertaining to its subject matter and it supersedes all prior contemporaneous agreements, representations and understandings of the parties. No supplement, modification or amendment of this Agreement shall be binding unless executed in writing by all parties.

(14) No waiver of any provision of this Agreement shall be deemed, or shall constitute, a waiver of any other provision, whether or not similar, nor shall any waiver constitute a continuing waiver. No waiver shall be binding unless executed in writing by the party making the waiver.

(15) This Agreement may be executed in any number of copies, each of which shall be deemed an original and no other copy need be produced. All pronouns and any variations thereof shall be deemed to refer to the masculine, feminine, neuter, singular or plural as the identity of the person or persons may require.

(16) This Agreement shall be binding upon the parties hereto and upon their respective executors, administrators, legal representatives, successors, and assigns.

(17) This agreement may only be amended or revoked by written amendment signed by both parties.

(18) Each party further agrees and affirms as follows:

(a) That the party did execute the agreement voluntarily; and

(b) That this agreement is not unconscionable when it was executed; and

(c) Both parties were provided prior to execution of this agreement a fair and reasonable disclosure of the property or financial obligations of the other party;

(d) That he and she did have, or reasonably could not have had, an adequate knowledge of the property or financial obligations of the other party.

The parties hereby execute this agreement in several counterparts, any executed copy of which shall be considered for all purposes as an original, on the day and year above written.

__________________________

Witness

__________________________________ FIRST PARTY (“WIFE”)

Witness

__________________________________

Attorney for First Party:

__________________________

Witness

__________________________________ SECOND PARTY (“HUSBAND”)

Witness

__________________________________

Attorney for Second Party:

Note: This agreement must be executed before a notary public.

State of

County of

The foregoing instrument was acknowledged before me this (date) by (name of person acknowledged).

_________________________________________
(Signature of Person Taking Acknowledgment)

_________________________________________
(Title or Rank)

_________________________________________
(Serial Number, if any)

Commission Expires:

State of

County of

The foregoing instrument was acknowledged before me this (date) by (name of person acknowledged).

_________________________________________
(Signature of Person Taking Acknowledgment)

_________________________________________
(Title or Rank)

_________________________________________
(Serial Number, if any)

Commission Expires:

Enter text✕

What the South Carolina Premarital Agreement Is

A South Carolina Premarital Agreement (commonly called a prenup) is a written contract entered into by two people before marriage to define ownership of assets, division of property, and spousal support if the marriage ends by divorce or death. It records each party's financial disclosures and any negotiated terms for division of separate and marital property, debt allocation, and estate planning treatment. While not ordinarily filed with a court, a properly executed agreement helps clarify expectations and can reduce litigation if disputed during dissolution or estate administration.

Why a Premarital Agreement Matters in South Carolina

A clear prenup can preserve separate property, reduce uncertainty about spousal support, and set predictable outcomes for asset division while promoting full financial disclosure before marriage.

Why a Premarital Agreement Matters in South Carolina

Who Typically Prepares and Signs These Agreements

The following profiles describe common parties and professionals who draft, review, or sign South Carolina premarital agreements.

  • Engaged couples with significant premarital assets or debt, including business owners and inheritances, seeking clarity and protection.
  • Family law attorneys who draft enforceable language, verify disclosure, and advise on fairness and voluntariness.
  • Financial advisors or estate planners coordinating asset schedules, retirement designations, and estate consequences for each party.

Each party should get independent legal advice to reduce risk of later challenges based on coercion, nondisclosure, or unconscionability.

Representative Signers and Counsel

Engaged Spouse

A prospective spouse who provides financial disclosure and consents to the agreement. Independent counsel is recommended so the signer understands rights, waiver consequences, and enforceability standards in South Carolina courts.

Family Law Attorney

An attorney who reviews asset schedules, drafts tailored provisions (support, property allocation, estate treatment), and documents independent advice to strengthen enforceability against future challenges.

Core Components of a Professional Premarital Agreement

A complete South Carolina premarital agreement contains clear identification of the parties, full financial disclosure, defined property regimes, spousal support terms, dispute resolution provisions, and execution language to evidence voluntary consent.

Parties

Full legal names and identifying information for both parties, plus any prior names or aliases, to avoid ambiguity about who is bound by the agreement.

Financial Disclosure

Detailed schedules of assets, liabilities, income, and expected inheritances so each party can evaluate fairness and avoid later claims of nondisclosure.

Property Allocation

Clauses specifying which assets remain separate, which become marital property, and how increases or income from separate property will be handled.

Spousal Support

Agreed provisions for alimony or waiver of spousal support, including triggering events, durations, and modification allowances consistent with South Carolina public policy.

Dispute Resolution

Choice-of-law, venue, and alternative dispute resolution clauses (mediation or arbitration) to streamline disputes and specify South Carolina courts if desired.

Execution & Authentication

Signature blocks, date lines, and acknowledgement of independent legal advice; notarization and witness language when used to strengthen evidentiary weight.

Step-by-Step: Preparing and Signing a Prenup in South Carolina

Follow these steps to create a clear, enforceable premarital agreement and reduce the risk of later challenge.

  • 01
    Collect Financials: Compile asset and debt schedules with supporting documents.
  • 02
    Draft Terms: Agree on property, support, and estate provisions in writing.
  • 03
    Seek Counsel: Each party should consult independent counsel for advice.
  • 04
    Execute Properly: Sign before witnesses/notary and retain originals securely.

Where to File, Send, or Deliver the Agreement

Premarital agreements are typically private contracts; follow these practical delivery steps to preserve evidentiary value.

  • Deliver to Counsel: Provide signed originals to each party’s attorney for safekeeping.
  • Retain Originals: Keep the executed original in a secure location for each party.
  • Provide Copies: Distribute certified copies to estate planners or financial advisors as needed.
  • Optional Recording: Record only if agreement affects real property; check local recorder requirements.

Configuring an Online Signing Workflow

Set up a clear digital workflow for review, signature, and distribution to establish intent and an audit trail.

Field Configuration
Authentication Email link plus SMS OTP or ID verification
Signature Order Sequential signing to document order of execution
Templates Save standard clauses and asset schedule slots
Notifications Automatic reminders and completion receipts

Digital Signing and Submission: Technical Considerations

Ensure the platform supports secure authentication, tamper-evident PDFs, and retrievable audit trails to substantiate signatures.

  • File Formats: PDF/A and DOCX accepted
  • Integrations: Works with Google Workspace and Microsoft 365
  • Authentication: Email, SMS OTP, or advanced ID checks

Use an eSignature provider compliant with ESIGN/UETA and, if necessary, HIPAA or 21 CFR Part 11 for regulated attachments.

Timing Considerations and Recommended Deadlines

Timing affects voluntariness. Follow these commonly recommended timing rules to reduce challenges based on duress or lack of opportunity to review.

Sign Before Ceremony:

Execute the agreement before the marriage occurs.

Advance Notice:

Recommend signing at least 30 days prior to marriage when feasible.

Attorney Review:

Allow each party sufficient time for counsel review.

Update at Change:

Amend after major life events such as children or business sale.

Record Retention:

Keep original for the duration of the marriage and beyond.

Key Milestones from Draft to Preservation

Track these milestones to document good process and preserve enforceability.

01

Initial Disclosure

Complete detailed asset and liability schedules.

02

Drafting Complete

Finalize terms and attachments for review.

03

Independent Review

Each party consults independent counsel.

04

Execution & Storage

Sign, notarize if chosen, and store originals securely.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Preparing a Prenup

  • Signing too close to the wedding date, which can suggest coercion or duress and invite a court challenge.
  • Failing to provide full written financial disclosure, giving the other party grounds to claim fraud or concealment.
  • Using overly broad or vague language that leaves key terms undefined and subject to dispute in court.
  • Skipping independent legal advice for one or both parties, which weakens presumptions of voluntary and informed consent.

Risks and Potential Consequences of an Improper Agreement

Unenforceability: Court may void part or all of the agreement
Financial Dispute: Leads to costly litigation and attorney fees
Tax Impact: Poor drafting can trigger adverse tax consequences
Estate Conflict: May complicate wills and beneficiary designations
Creditor Claims: Third-party creditor rights may override terms
Public Policy: Courts can refuse enforcement if unconscionable

Comparison: eSignature Vendor Pricing and Key Features

Pricing and feature availability vary by plan and vendor. The table below shows starting prices and common feature availability across leading providers.

signNow DocuSign Adobe Sign PandaDoc HelloSign
Starting Price $8/user/mo $15/user/mo $14/user/mo $19/user/mo $15/user/mo
Free Trial 7-day trial Varies by vendor Varies by vendor Varies by vendor Varies by vendor
Bulk Send Yes Yes Yes Yes No
Audit Trail Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes
HIPAA Compliant Yes Yes Yes No No
Envelope Cap No cap 100 envelopes/user/year Varies Varies Varies

Frequently Asked Questions About South Carolina Premarital Agreements

Answers to common legal and practical questions about drafting, signing, and preserving enforceability of premarital agreements in South Carolina.


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