How to protect yourself during a breakup: a lawyer explained the rules for dividing property

      May 22, 2026 09:00 Society NIA "Nizhny Novgorod" - Polina Zubova Is it possible to protect yourself in advance in case of a breakup and potential property disputes? To avoid being in a vulnerable position, it is worth considering the protection of your rights even at the beginning of a relationship. The chairwoman of the regional branch of the Association of Lawyers of Russia, lawyer Irina Fast, told NIA "Nizhny Novgorod" about the legal tools that help preserve property and minimize the risks of conflicts in the future. According to her, the basis of legal protection in a couple remains official marriage.

      "Official marriage was not invented for nothing. In our country, the legislation is structured in such a way that all rights and obligations arise in connection with the registration of marriage," emphasized Fast.

      If a partner avoids registering the relationship, the lawyer advises to pay special attention to property issues. In this case, it is important to clearly delineate ownership and register acquisitions in your name, as well as not to invest money in the partner's property without documentary confirmation. If investments do occur, they must be documented. This can be a promissory note or a written agreement stating that the funds are directed, for example, to the renovation of an apartment with the obligation to return them under certain circumstances. According to Fast, there are enough legal tools, but it is important to understand the risks in advance and not to "wear rose-colored glasses."

      "We know how to protect ourselves from a cold: avoid public places, wear a mask, take vitamins. It's the same here - simple measures. You just need to understand that this is not our common property. If I give him cash for the renovation of the apartment, then in case of anything, I have essentially gifted it. Or I need to get a receipt," she explained.

      The lawyer also touched on the topic of prenuptial agreements. If they were rare before, their number has noticeably increased now, partly due to bank requirements when applying for a mortgage.

      "Now this is a normal story, people come to the notary before marriage, talk about it. This is security for both men and women. You need to agree on everything for the future," noted Fast.

      She advises each of the future spouses to consult with a lawyer before signing the agreement. When drafting a prenuptial agreement, it is important to check whether the balance of rights is maintained. For example, if one spouse remains without income and takes care of the home or raises children, while all property is assigned to the other, such a structure may put them in a vulnerable position. It should be noted that one specialist cannot represent both parties due to a conflict of interest. Typically, the draft prenuptial agreement is prepared by lawyers based on the wishes of the parties, after which the document is certified by a notary. At the same time, specialists interact with each other, representing the interests of each client separately, which helps avoid unnecessary emotional conflicts between future spouses. Communication with the lawyer took place as part of a joint project of the media group NOIC and the Nizhny Novgorod regional branch of the Association of Lawyers of Russia "So You Know."

      Recall that during the online conference, NIA "Nizhny Novgorod" allows you to ask Irina Fast about inheritance disputes, division of business and property, asset protection, risks for owners, and ways to maintain control over capital. Earlier, the lawyer explained whether a civil wife can claim property in the event of a breakup. NIA "Nizhny Novgorod" has channels on Telegram and MAX. Subscribe to stay updated on major events, exclusive materials, and timely information. Copyright © 1999—2025 NIA "Nizhny Novgorod". When reprinting, a hyperlink to NIA "Nizhny Novgorod" is mandatory. This resource may contain materials 18+