A couple of weeks ago, we discussed the ongoing divorce dispute between Deion and Pilar Sanders. The divorce proceedings are taking place in Texas, and so far the conflict has been mainly about Deion’s child support payments and the validity of the former couple’s prenuptial agreement.
Pilar has alleged that the prenup was in part forged. She also claimed that the part she did sign was agreed to while under pressure. For his part, Deion pointed out that Pilar signed the agreement over 12 years ago, and he said now she is just being greedy. Pilar in turn wanted Deion held in contempt of court for not paying monthly child support of $10,500. Deion insists that amount is excessive.
In a win for Deion, the judge in Collin County, where this case was heard, ruled on Oct. 25 that the prenuptial agreement is in fact valid. As part of the ruling, Pilar will not be able to challenge the validity of the prenup again. Now an arbitrator will oversee the divorce proceedings.
According to a news source, the prenup that was challenged by Pilar gave her $100,000 when she signed it. It will also give her $1 million after the divorce is finalized.
Though not all prenuptial agreements deal with such large amounts of money, it is important for all parties involved to understand their rights according to current family law. Prenuptial agreements can be challenged, but the challenging party will need proof that persuades a court that the agreement was signed through coercion or would cause harm to the signer.
These conditions are difficult to meet without strong evidence. Likewise, individuals whose former spouses are attempting to nullify a prenuptial agreement will need a legal advocate to ensure that the terms of the agreement are upheld.
Source: NBCDFW.com, “Judge says Pilar, Deion prenup is valid,” Oct. 25, 2012
