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purpose of marriage contract

so: why are you creating a marriage contract?

 

 

Contracts usually have a section near the beginning named Purpose that states why the parties have agreed to enter into their particular contract.

There are probably a number of reasons why you've decided to design and commit to your marriage contract. It's worth thinking clearly about what these are, discussing them fully, and then writing them down.

By listing in a series of clauses, one clause for each topic or theme, what the two of you plan to achieve by contracting your marriage, you're bringing clarity to your shared life goals and dreams.

On this page we provide a general outline of each of these purpose-related clauses. And to get you started, we've also provided an example of each one.

Stating the Purpose of Your Marriage Contract

The following is a sample of the type of clauses you may wish to include in the Purpose section of your marriage contract.

See sample

2.1 For the reasons set out below, and to achieve the benefits arising therefrom, [Romeo] and [Juliet] resolve to bring into being, as a foundation to their relationship of mutual love and affection, the legally-binding exchange of rights and responsibilities contained in this Agreement: —
2.1.1 the CONTEMPLATION of their prospective Agreement focused the minds and spirits of [Romeo] and [Juliet] on the seriousness and sanctity of marriage, each recognising that it is to be considered and entering into only with the sureness of vision, seriousness of intent and certainty of purpose.
2.1.2 the SHARING, through open and honest disclosure, of their individual natures, values and circumstances provided [Romeo] and [Juliet] with the opportunity to deepen their knowledge and understanding of themselves, of each other, and of their relationship, as it has developed in the past, as it stands currently and as they foresee it blossoming into the future.
2.1.3 the NEGOTIATION of mutual rights and responsibilities, as undertaken by [Romeo] and [Juliet] in creating their Agreement, provided the opportunity to discover and value each's empathetic capacity to appreciate the other's background, priorities and aspirations, and to see the world as each other sees it.
2.1.4 the PROVISIONS of their Agreement, created jointly, negotiated fairly and entered into freely, provide [Romeo] and [Juliet] with clarity for their life purpose and provide a legally secure repository for their shared goals and dreams.
2.1.5 the PROTECTION provided by the Agreement enables [Romeo] and [Juliet] to guard their relationship, in all its aspects and circumstances, from interference by other persons, entities, including the State and agencies of the State.
2.1.6 the EXECUTION of the Agreement at their intended wedding provides [Romeo] and [Juliet] with the occasion to make a public declaration of their committed union and to invite, from the families or origin, friends and the wider community, recognition and blessing for the life they plan together.
2.1.7 the SUSTAINING of their Agreement into the future presents [Romeo] and [Juliet] with the challenge to nurture further their love for one another, their commitment to one another, and their dedication to a well-lived life – a challenge both [Romeo] and [Juliet] now embrace.

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