We would always recommend that you prepare a formal Pre-conception Agreement as the process itself will help you to reflect on your hopes and expectations, whilst encouraging you to address the more delicate issues that are otherwise easy to avoid.

If you set everything out in writing it will be easy to refer to in the future, which can help you to avoid disputes.  Whereas people’s understanding or interpretation of verbal agreements may be different and can often change over time, which can lead to disputes.

Another advantage of a Pre-Conception Agreement is that you will all be equal at the time of drafting, which is more likely to result in an arrangement that is a fair reflection of everyone’s wishes.