An interesting issue came up recently in relation to a 'prenuptial agreement (more technically referred to as a 'binding financial agreement')'.
In particular, as many would know, the need for both parties to the relationship to obtain independent legal advice was brought into question because often one party will choose not to follow the advice that is provided. That is the lawyer may recommend that the agreement not be signed, however the client will still sign.
Based on recent cases, it seems clear that:
1. There is no need for independent advice to be actually accepted or followed to satisfy the requirement that independent advice is sought.
2. Even if advice provided by the independent lawyer is later shown to be incorrect, the criteria that independent advice be sought may still be satisfied.
Until next week.
