Can I change my children’s last names along with my own after divorce?
How Do I Change My Name After Divorce?
Going through a divorce can be a difficult and overwhelming process, and changing your name may be the last thing on your mind. However, if you wish to change your name back to your maiden name or to a completely new name, it is important to know the necessary steps to make this happen.
Step 1: Check Your Divorce Decree
Before you begin the process of changing your name, review your divorce decree to see if the court has already granted you permission to change your name. If your divorce decree includes this provision, you will likely only need to present a copy of the decree to the proper authorities to have your name legally changed.
Step 2: File a Petition for Name Change
If your divorce decree does not include a provision for name change, you will need to file a petition for a legal name change with your local court. The requirements for filing a petition vary by state, so be sure to check your state’s guidelines to ensure that you provide all necessary documentation and pay any required fees.
Step 3: Notify the Appropriate Parties
Once your name change has been legally approved, you will need to notify a variety of parties about the change. This includes updating your driver’s license, passport, social security card, and any financial accounts, such as credit cards and bank accounts.
Step 4: Spread the Word
Inform your friends, family, and colleagues about your name change so that they know how to address you moving forward. You may also want to update your professional and personal documents, such as your resume, business cards, and email signature, to reflect your new name.
Quiz: How Much Do You Know about Changing Your Name after Divorce?
Chances are that you had already changed your name for someone else when you got married. However, due to the unfortunate circumstances of a divorce, the name you used since getting married is no longer something you want to be associated with. Here is a guide on how to change your name after a divorce.
1. File for divorce. Depending on your state, you must wait for the divorce to be finalized before you can apply to legally change your name.
2. Fill out the forms. You’ll need to obtain the appropriate forms for petitioning the court to change your name after a divorce. The papers you need can be found in the clerk of court in the county where you are filing for divorce.
3. File the forms. Once you have the completed forms, you’ll need to file them with the clerk of the court. You can also contact an attorney to help with the filing process.
4. Prepare for the hearing. Once the forms are filed, the court will schedule a hearing date. You will need to attend this hearing in order to successfully change your name.
5. Follow the court’s instructions. At the hearing, the judge will ask questions and give you instructions for changing your name. It’s important to follow the court’s instructions so that you can legally change your name.
6. Get certified copies of the court order. After the hearing, the court will provide you with a certified copy of the court order to legally change your name. You can use this document to update your records with organizations such as the Social Security Administration, the DMV, and the Internal Revenue Service.
By following these six steps, you can change your name after a divorce. If you need assistance with the process, you can contact an attorney who specializes in family law.