Rise in pre-nup and post-nup agreements for farming families following budget reforms

Clarke Willmott LLP agricultural lawyers have reported an increase in inquiries on pre -marriage and post -marriage agreements, after recent government changes in the inheritance tax on agricultural assets.

With the planning for the caliphate now, specialists in the customer and family law witness an increase in demand for legal advice to protect agricultural assets, while ensuring that they remain within the family for future generations.

Holly Smith, a partner in the Family Law team in Clark Wilmot, explained that marriage agreements can play a vital role in securing agricultural assets, including lands, livestock, agricultural equipment and commercial interests.

She said: “Many agricultural families recognize the importance of protecting the specified assets and ensuring that within the family,” she said. “The agreement can clarify the royal marriage and clarify how to manage assets – including future heritage and commercial interests – in the event of divorce.”

Under the government plans announced in October, starting from April 2026, the assets of agricultural and commercial property will continue to up to one million pounds in obtaining a full inheritance tax, but taxes will be imposed on anything higher than this threshold at an effective rate of 20 %. Farmers warn that these reforms can create severe financial challenges and even affect food production.

Smith stressed the importance of early legal planning: “We understand the extent of our agricultural customers' interest in these new rules. Requesting legal advice is now necessary to alleviate risks and protect family assets.”

In addition to the tax reforms of the inheritance, marriage agreements are increasingly relevant when bringing the next generation to family business or assets, creation of the boxes, or restructuring of agricultural institutions.

Smith added: “By addressing possible issues in advance, agricultural families can ensure clarity, reduce the risk of differences, and preserve their agricultural heritage.”

With agricultural companies the transfer of these legislative changes, legal experts advise early procedures to ensure long -term assets and avoid uncertainty in the future.