Do you know what happens to your inheritance once you’re married? In Florida, an inheritance is yours alone—until it’s not. That’s right. Once it’s commingled, it can become a marital asset. At Bergermann Law Firm, we’ve seen this scenario play out time and again. Don’t want that to happen to you? Let’s break down how to protect what’s rightfully yours.
Avoiding the Commingling Trap
Here’s a question: are you keeping your inheritance separate? If you’re not, you should be. The second you put your inherited money into a joint account, boom—it’s now fair game in a divorce. Keep it separate. Open a new account, deposit only your inheritance, and leave it alone. Don’t mix it with marital funds, don’t use it for shared expenses, and never title it in both your names. Want to keep what’s yours? Keep it separate.
How to Keep What’s Yours
You’re thinking, “What’s the best way to handle this?” Simple: document everything. Keep detailed records of where your inheritance came from, where it goes, and how it’s used. Even better, work with a trusted lawyer. At Bergermann Law Firm, we help clients in Naples, FL, take the steps to ensure their inheritance stays out of the marital pool. Why leave things to chance? Be proactive.
Should You Use a Prenuptial or Postnuptial Agreement?
Want another layer of protection? Consider a prenuptial or postnuptial agreement. A prenuptial can spell out that your inheritance remains your separate property no matter what. Didn’t get a prenuptial agreement? No worries. A postnuptial agreement can do the same thing after you’re married. If you’re serious about keeping your assets, a legal agreement is a smart move. Our team at Bergermann Law Firm can help you create one tailored to your needs.
Don’t Let Marital Assets Take Over
What happens if your inheritance gets mixed in with marital funds? Can you still separate it? Possibly. But it’s complicated. You’ll need to trace every dollar to prove what’s marital and what’s not. That’s why we always tell clients—avoid the hassle by keeping it separate from the start. It’s easier to prevent commingling than to untangle it later.
Legal Help is Critical
Navigating Florida’s inheritance laws is no small task. You need a law firm that understands the nuances of family law. That’s where Bergermann Law Firm comes in. We know how to protect your rights and assets. Whether it’s keeping your inheritance separate or ensuring a fair division of assets during a divorce, we’ve got your back. Let’s get ahead of any issues before they become problems.
The Takeaway? Stay Protected
So, what’s the takeaway here? If you’ve got an inheritance, don’t let it become marital property. Keep it separate. Document everything. And if you need extra protection, consider a legal agreement. At Bergermann Law Firm, we’re here to help clients in Naples, FL, safeguard their assets. Don’t wait until it’s too late. Call us at (239) 334-0075 to schedule a consultation and learn more.
