A prenuptial agreement has the power to alter what a final asset distribution traditionally looks like in an equitable distribution state like North Carolina. This legally enforceable documentation supersedes the state’s distribution rules. It is an enticing option for someone entering a marriage who feels like they have more to lose if the relationship were to turn sour down the road. It can prevent someone from losing a house they plan to pay the majority of the mortgage for or ensure that their retirement account is not taken advantage of when they were the individual who contributed to it for years. Under certain circumstances, individuals may try to hide assets or coerce the agreement. If this is discovered, the prenuptial agreement could be found invalid and force the divorce to divide assets under equitable distribution.