Interest in prenuptial agreements is surging among younger Canadians, with a majority of Gen Z expressing a desire for them, according to TD data. Yet, the legal and emotional complexities often deter couples from pursuing prenups. Jointly, a Vancouver-based startup, aims to demystify and democratize this process through an online platform offering affordable, legally sound prenuptial, postnuptial, and cohabitation agreements.
### What Jointly Actually Does
Founded in March 2025 by B.C. lawyers Aimee Schalles and Amanda Baron, Jointly provides digital tools to draft family law agreements at a fraction of traditional costs. The platform allows users to create personalized prenups for approximately $400, a stark contrast to the $4,000 or more typically charged by conventional lawyers. Jointly ensures that each agreement is compliant with Canadian law by using content specifically tailored to each province. While artificial intelligence aids in the platform’s functionality, every legal clause is crafted by practicing lawyers, ensuring quality and compliance.
### Competitive Context
In the crowded legaltech space, Jointly is carving out a niche by focusing on accessibility and affordability. Unlike traditional law firms that demand high fees and long wait times, Jointly offers a streamlined, user-friendly alternative. The company’s direct competition includes other online legal services platforms, but few offer such targeted solutions for family law agreements in Canada. Jointly also sets itself apart by integrating AI into its platform to enhance user experience, although it remains committed to maintaining a lawyer-driven content creation process.
### Real Implications for Founders, Engineers, and the Industry
For founders and engineers in the legaltech sector, Jointly’s approach highlights the potential of combining legal expertise with technology to address unmet consumer needs. The platform’s success could inspire more startups to explore how AI can be used responsibly within regulated industries without sacrificing professional oversight. For the broader industry, Jointly’s model demonstrates that there’s a viable market for legal services that prioritize accessibility and cost-effectiveness. This could lead to increased pressure on traditional law firms to adapt their business models to stay competitive.
### What Happens Next
As Jointly continues to expand its offerings across Canada, the focus will likely be on refining its platform and scaling operations. The startup’s success could encourage further investment in legaltech innovation, particularly solutions aimed at making legal services more accessible to the public. For engineers and entrepreneurs, this represents an opportunity to develop complementary technology that could integrate with or enhance platforms like Jointly. Meanwhile, investors might see potential in nurturing startups that tackle other areas of law through digital means, fostering a more inclusive legal landscape.
