Will Reverting to My Maiden Name Change My Divorce Agreement?

Reclaiming a maiden name is a significant step in re-establishing an identity for many going through a divorce. But if you’re considering reverting to your previous name, you may wonder whether it could impact the terms of your divorce agreement. The good news is that changing your name, whether during or after your divorce, is a separate process.

When considering this step, contact an Orlando family lawyer for assistance. Legal professionals are available to guide you through the process, ensuring it’s as seamless as possible, so you can focus on starting this next chapter of your life.

The Pros and Cons of a Name Shift

Reverting to your maiden name is a personal choice that has no effect on the legal aspects of your divorce. Decisions related to child custody, alimony, property division, and other components of your divorce agreement remain unchanged, as these terms are based on the circumstances of the marriage and separation, not your name.

That said, if you decide to change your name, you will need to inform relevant parties and update official documents. This ensures that your new name is reflected in legal records and avoids potential confusion in matters like shared parenting responsibilities or financial transactions.

Advantages to making a name change:

• Personal identity. Reverting to a maiden name can symbolize a fresh start and help you move forward after your marriage ends.
• Cultural connections. Returning to a previous name can reconnect you with your heritage or family identity.
• Professional alignment. If you established your career under your maiden name, reverting to it may make sense for a few different areas of your life.

Drawbacks to consider:

• Administrative burden. Changing your name involves updating legal documents, bank accounts, and other records, which can be time-consuming.
• Consistency concerns. If you share children with your ex-spouse, having a different last name might occasionally cause confusion, though this is generally minor.

There are professionals who can help ensure that your name change is handled smoothly, whether it’s included in your divorce proceedings or pursued afterward. They can also guide you in notifying relevant parties and updating documents to reflect the change.

How to Change Your Name

In Florida, the process for changing your name depends on whether you make the decision during or after your divorce. Should you choose to make a name change during divorce proceedings, you can request this in your divorce petition. Once the divorce is finalized, the court order will include approval for your name change, making the process straightforward.

If you decide to change your name after the divorce, you’ll need to file a petition for a name change, which will require a new filing fee, with the court. This requires a background check and attending a court hearing. Once a name change is approved, you’ll need to update your Social Security card, driver’s license, passport, and other official documents. Talk to an Orlando family lawyer to learn more.

Who are you talking to about a name change? The family law attorneys at Donna Hung can guide you from one phase of life to another. Call 407-999-0099 or contact us online to get started.