The Fast Guide to Divorce Name Changes

If you are getting divorced or ending a domestic partnership, you may need to consider if you want to change your last name. Traditionally, women took on the last names of their husbands when they married. These days there are many ways that people change their names when they make a commitment to each other. Many people still follow this tradition, but more and more couples choose a hyphenated or altogether new name. When that relationship comes to an end, both or either person may wonder how to match their name to their new identity.

If you’re contemplating what to do after a divorce, consider the following:

• In California, you can have a judge change your name during divorce proceedings, avoiding extra paperwork. However, you may not yet be ready at this point to decide on what your change should be.
• That’s OK, since you can also change your name later. It might take a bit more paperwork, but it’s no more trouble than the process individuals normally go through to legally change their names.
• It is understandable if you chose to keep your married name. Many people choose to do this, especially if they built a professional reputation under that name or wish their name to match their children’s.
• You could also choose an entirely new name. This is not as common of a solution, but for some people it gives them a sense of making a fresh start.

For More Information

There are many options available as to how to handle your name after a divorce or the end of a domestic partnership. If you are going to have primary custody of your children after a divorce and want to change your name, you may wonder about changing your children’s names as well. Call Fischer & Van Thiel, LLP, to speak with an experienced Oceanside custody lawyer today. Our caring and dedicated attorneys can be reached at 760-722-7646.