Do I Need a Lawyer to Change My Name?
There are a few reasons to have your name legally changed, including marriage and divorce. There is no need for a lawyer to help you with the process.
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Common Usage
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Upon marriage, you can assume your husband's name without having to go through the courts, which is referred to as common usage. Take your marriage certificate to your local Department of Motor Vehicles and Social Security Administration offices with a copy of your marriage certificate, and they will take care of the name change.
Court Order
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If you have recently gone through a divorce, you can have your name changed on documents if there is a clause in your divorce to do so. To change your name on your driver's license and Social Security card, take a copy of the divorce agreement to the DMV and Social Security Administration offices.
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Other Reasons
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There are other reasons for changing your name, including personal preference and religious reasons. There is still no need to hire a lawyer, although court costs will be charged. A simple form at the courthouse with your new name, the reasoning behind the change and an appearance before a judge are all that you need.
Fraudulent Purposes
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A name change will not be approved if you are planning on fraudulently using the new identity. Fraudulent purposes include avoiding legal action or debt collection and violating someone else's rights to a name.
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References
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