How to Change Your Name Years After the Wedding

The procedure for legally changing your name is similar across jurisdictions. If you want to change your name immediately after your marriage, you can do so without appearing in court. Name changes can also be a part of divorce proceedings. But if you wait years after your marriage occurred to change your name, you must file a petition for a name change.

Instructions

1. Obtain the Petition for Changing Name in your jurisdiction. Some court systems have these forms online. Others only provide them at the courthouse; you must go to the courthouse and ask for the form.

2. Complete the form. Provide both your current legal name and your desired new name. Most importantly, state your reasons for wanting to change your name. The court will need this information to rule on your petition.

3. File the form with your local court. Some courts require you to alert the public to your name change; ask the court clerk about the proper procedure for publishing the notice. The clerk will also set a date for the hearing on your petition.

4. Appear at the hearing. If your jurisdiction requires you to publish notice of your name change, bring proof that you have complied with the requirements. The court will issue a ruling either granting or denying your petition for a name change.

References

• California Courts Self-Help Center: Name Change
• California Courts Self-Help Center: Order to Show Cause for Change of Name