An estimated two million couples have taken the first step down the aisle as of this past Valentine's Day. That figure is proffered by American Express, based on a survey released in January. We don't know how many of those couples might have made engagements formal in Virginia. Regardless of the number, the matter they might wisely be considering now is whether to draw up prenuptial agreements.

For some, the thought of even discussing a prenuptial agreement may seem like a wet blanket being thrown on the passion and romance. But experienced family law attorneys know that failure to talk about money before vows are exchanged can be a significant factor in those vows being revoked later. Disagreement over assets can also become a key point of emotional dispute in a divorce.

Because a prenuptial agreement can serve as a tool for greater communication, it can rightly be viewed as a tool that can benefit a marriage. There are also those who observe that all marriages end at some point; in death, if not divorce. In every instance, prenuptial agreements provide a form of insurance in guiding asset distribution.

That guidance can be especially helpful for people entering second or third marriages. Consider how multiple marriages can blend multiple families. Perhaps the only way to avoid contentiousness in the event of a divorce is to establish clarity through a prenuptial agreement.

Young couples just starting out may benefit, too. Imagine a scenario in which both individuals make about the same income, but one anticipates receiving a meaningful inheritance at some point and the other has some rental properties. Both may want to determine how they want those assets protected. Spelling it out in a prenup would prevent possible emotional battles later.

One last thing to remember in this discussion -- prenuptial agreements can always be renegotiated in the course of the marriage.

Source: Reuters, "When Valentines and prenups go together," Kathleen Kingsbury, Feb. 15, 2012