How To Change Your Name After Divorce

While some individuals keep their married name after divorce, others decide to change it as part of their transition into a new stage of their life. If you would like to learn how to change your name after divorce, it is crucial to understand how the process works and what your options are.

With over 35 combined years of exclusive family law experience, we understand how to handle various types of issues and details that may arise during the divorce process. Our attorneys can walk you through the process of getting your name changed and seek to make it as seamless as possible.

THE PROCESS FOR CHANGING YOUR NAME AFTER DIVORCE

It is important to note that someone obtaining a divorce is not required to change their name simply because their marriage is ending. With that being said, if one party decides to change their name at the time the Court approves their Divorce Agreement, this individual may include this request in the divorce petition. This is the most straightforward approach because everything is done legally at the time of the divorce.  (You still have to go make all the changes at the RMV, Social Security, your bank, etc. after you obtain the judgment in the mail.)

Sometimes, however, a divorcing party may decide to keep their married name, but then decide to have their name changed after their divorce is complete. In this situation, this person must pay an additional fee and file a new petition with their name change request (unless they are getting remarried – then you can simply request the name change at the time you apply for your marriage license). The Petition for Change of Name would be filed with your local family court.  If you live in Hanover, this would take place in Plymouth County Probate and Family Court.

If a parent wishes to have their child’s name changed as well, they would have to petition the Court for that, including serving the other parent to give that parent the opportunity to object to the child’s name change.  A judge would then have to determine whether changing the child’s name serves the child’s best interests.

KEY CONSIDERATIONS BEFORE CHANGING A MARRIED NAME

If one divorcing party would like to change their married name, they should know that it should not affect the outcome of their divorce. However, there are some key considerations to bear in mind before someone decides to change their name.

Changing a married name could impact many areas of a person’s life. For instance, this individual would need to change their name on all financial documents, tax documents, credit cards, and bank accounts, which can be a long and complicated process. Additionally, this person also may need to consider the impact of their name change if their child retains the other parent’s last name. A person should feel free to change their name after divorce if they so desire, but it is best to be aware of the potential impact that this change could have.

CONTACT OUR ATTORNEYS FOR MORE INFORMATION ABOUT CHANGING YOUR NAME AFTER DIVORCE

If you are contemplating dissolving your marriage and need advice about how to change your name after divorce, our dedicated team of legal professionals is here to help. Our lawyers can review your situation and determine the course of action most suited to your specific circumstances. Get in touch with our team today.