Deciding to change your name after a divorce is a personal choice. Returning to your maiden name can be a way for you to reassert your independence, break away from your painful past, and reflect on the identity you may have lost during an unhappy marriage or divorce proceeding.
However, name changes following an Albany divorce are not automatic. You need to file specific documents and adhere to precise procedural requirements. A skilled divorce attorney from our firm could guide you through the steps to successfully change your name.
Formally changing a name is considerably easier if it occurs during the divorce process—rather than after.
If the person who wants their name changed is the one who initially filed the petition for dissolution of marriage, they simply need to submit a formal name change request along with that petition. If their soon-to-be former spouse files the petition, they can formally ask the Court to revert back to their maiden name when they respond to the petition.
After receiving a final divorce decree, the process for changing a name is more complicated, but it can go smoothly with the assistance of an experienced lawyer in Albany. Someone who wants to legally change their name must file a petition with the relevant county of the Supreme Court of the State of New York. The petition should include the following additional documents of support:
The petitioner will need to pay the related fees associated with the petition and verify that they are complying with the Court’s procedural requirements.
Even after legally changing a name with the Court, an individual will still need to promptly update their name on certain official governmental documents, such as their driver’s license, social security card, and passport. For instance, they would not be able to easily travel on an airline if their passport name does not match the name on the plane ticket.
They will also need to notify their employer and physician and change their name on all of their credit cards, debit cards, bank accounts, and insurance cards. Individuals wishing to change their name should contact the appropriate governmental agency or institution to learn about their individual procedures. A seasoned Albany attorney could draw upon their years of experience and offer guidance and helpful advice throughout name changes after a divorce.
Getting divorced can be a challenging time. Moving forward and putting the chapter of an unhappy marriage fully into your past is an important part of your healing journey. Going back to using your maiden name may help you feel like you are firmly taking a step in the right direction.
However, name changes following an Albany divorce are not always simple. Having the guidance of our knowledgeable lawyers by your side could make the process go more smoothly and efficiently. Schedule a complimentary consultation with a dedicated legal team today.
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