One of the questions people face when they are undergoing a divorce is whether they can keep their last name. In Massachusetts, whether you choose to keep your last name or change it, it can have implications on various aspects of your life. For some, a last name is tied to their sense of self, family history, or professional recognition.
In Massachusetts, you are allowed to either keep your married name or revert to your maiden name after a divorce. However, the procedure is not very straightforward. You will need to include your surname preferences in the divorce paperwork.
Handling divorce while also figuring out the legal method to change or keep your name can be overwhelming. This is why it is recommended to consult with an experienced divorce attorney. Visit this website to schedule a consultation meeting today.
Why would one want to keep their last name after a divorce?
Many people want to keep their last name after their divorce because of several reasons. This can be practical, emotional, and even cultural. For some people, their last name may be closely linked to their professional identity or reputation. If they change it, it can lead to a lot of confusion. This is especially true if someone has built a public presence under that name.
Other people may want to keep their last name the same as their children. Sharing the same last name can make it easier to share connections with their kids and also maintain a sense of togetherness in the family.
There may also be some cultural reasons for keeping the last name. Some people want to keep their last name even after the divorce because it represents family history. In some cultures, keeping the last name is also a symbol of identity.
How to legally change your name after a divorce?
If you do not want any emotional connection and want to change your name after your divorce, you must follow the legal procedure, which involves filing a petition in court. You will submit a request in the court and ask for the court’s permission to change your name.
However, this is not a quick process. You will need to give reasons for the change and also fill out any required forms. Moreover, you will need to present certain documents as part of the name change request, such as your divorce decree.
Additionally, you may need to provide a valid photo ID, such as a driver’s license and proof of residence. The cost of a name change is not fixed and varies depending on where you live. However, it generally ranges from $100 to $500.
The process can take anywhere from a few weeks to several months. Therefore, you must be patient. After the court has approved your name change request, you must immediately update your name across various records. This may include updating your passport, changing your name on bank accounts, credit cards, and so on.
Things to consider before you decide
There are a few things you should consider before changing your name after your divorce. You will need to think about how this will affect your children. If you share a last name with your children, a name change might affect your family unity or cause confusion for your children.
A name change can also impact your professional life. If you have built a career with your married name, it may disrupt it or cause confusion in your work life. Moreover, on a personal level, it can affect your identity.
Your right to choose your name after a divorce!
Just because you are getting a divorce, that does not necessarily mean that you have to remove your ex-spouse’s last name from your name. However, if you do want to change it to move on, you can certainly do so. Consult with an attorney today!
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