Leap day: Don't forget the pre-nup

What is there to do if you’re a wealthy man whose leading lady is likely to pop the question on Leap day, when, according to tradition, a woman can propose to an unmarried man?

The day, which “strikes fear into the hearts of many ultra-high net worth beaus”, will see some men hiding out in Klosters or Sandy Lane, Jonathan West, head of family and matrimonial at law firm Prolegal, told CampdenFB.

But wealthy men who are in love and willing to tie the knot should cautiously say yes, provided there is a pre-nuptial agreement.

“She may say that if you love her then you wouldn’t ask – but then again, if she loves you she’ll sign,” said West, who reckons it is “entirely right” that the ultra-wealthy would want to protect their pre-acquired assets and ring fence inheritance.

“In fact I would go as far as saying that it is an essential part of your wealth planning as getting married without one could be the worst piece of business you have done in a long while,” he added.

And remember, if you do turn down a proposal tomorrow (29 February), you owe the woman a dress (and a very good one at that!).