Q: I’m my family’s breadwinner, but I never got a prenup. Is there anything I can do now to protect my assets? Can I get a postnup?

A: Yes. A postnuptial agreement lets married couples agree on how property or assets are divided in case the marriage ends. Requirements vary from state to state, but in general:

It must be in writing. An oral postnuptial agreement isn’t valid; it must be signed by both spouses and in some states notarized.

It must be voluntary, meaning one spouse can’t threaten, physically force or deceive the other spouse into signing the agreement.

It can’t be unconscionable, or in other words, completely one-sided. There must be full and accurate disclosure by both spouses about all property and assets they own.

Gloria Allred is a founding partner of Allred, Maroko & Goldberg, a leading plaintiff civil law firm, and a spokesperson for Lawyers.com, a legal website for consumers.