Some spouses choose to change their names once they become married. It
is often a symbolic moment, demonstrating the unity between the couple.
Unfortunately, after a
divorce, many spouses choose to return to their former or birth names.
First, your divorce decree should state that you have the intention of
restoring your name. If this was not added to your divorce decree, then
you can ask the courts to allow for an amendment to your document. You
should note, however, that some Texas courts might not grant this. If
this occurs, then the next step would be to file a Petition for Name Change.
Legal Obstacles to Name Change
There are many reasons why a person would want to change their legal name.
Whether or not that person gets married, a name change is a legal process
and requires notification of several government agencies, including the
Social Security Office and the Department of Motor Vehicles, as examples.
The process is much easier if there is a provision in your divorce document
that states you wish to return to your former or birth name.
You will need the following documents to begin the process:
- A certified copy of your divorce decree
- Photo identification (e.g., Texas State ID, driver’s license, passport)
- Proof of your date of birth (birth certificate, hospital records, adoption
records, etc.)
Next, you would file your petition for name change with the Texas court
in the county where you are currently residing and provide a set of fingerprints.
Along with your identifying information, you will also need to provide
your Social Security number.
Furthermore, if you have had a past history of criminal activity, you may
also need to disclose this information. This will include convictions,
acquittals, and other pertinent information. The process will culminate
with a court hearing, and the judge will review the information on your
petition. He or she will then sign off on the name change.
Have Questions? Call Us!
At the
Law Office of Kathryn Marteeny, we work relentlessly for clients and strive to provide you with the resources
and tools you need to achieve your goals. Changing your name immediately
following a divorce or marriage is a major step, but we know that this
is a critical aspect of maintaining your personal identity as you move
forward. If you would like legal counsel for divorce or any other family
law matter, please do not hesitate to
contact us.
We are a highly successful legal team that cares about your needs. Call
us at (713) 936-2300!