Changing your name after divorce can be an empowering step toward starting fresh. Many people return to a previous surname, while others use the opportunity to adopt a completely new name. Whether you want to make the change during your divorce or afterward, the Law Office of Amanda J. Cook, PLLC, can guide you through the process.
Changing Your Name During Divorce
The easiest time to request a name change is during your divorce. You can include the change in your Petition for Dissolution of Marriage—modifying your first, middle, last name, or all three. Once the divorce is finalized, the decree will authorize the change, which you can then use to update your name with government agencies and other institutions.
Changing Your Name After Divorce
If you didn’t request a name change during the divorce, you can still do so later, but the process involves additional steps:
- File a Petition for Name Change in your county
- Pay a filing fee or apply for a waiver
- Attend a court hearing and explain your request
- Obtain a certified copy of the name change order
If safety is a concern, such as in cases involving domestic violence, you may request the court to seal your name change for privacy. It can take up to two months to finalize, so keep your certified copy safe for updating your records.
Changing a Minor’s Name
Parents may request a name change for their child after divorce by filing a petition and providing proof of the child’s identity. Children aged 14 or older usually must attend the court hearing.
Where to Update Your Name
Once your name change is official, update it with:
- Social Security Administration
- DMV and passport office
- IRS and state taxing authorities
- Banks and employers
- Voter registration
- Insurance providers, schools, and more
Because it’s easy to forget where updates are needed, hold onto your divorce decree or court order—it may be useful for years to come.
We’re Here to Help
The Law Office of Amanda J. Cook, PLLC, has extensive experience assisting with name changes and divorce-related legal matters. Contact us for a private consultation to discuss your needs.