Name Change After Divorce: Should You Do It?

Posted by Nunneley Family Law on April 26th, 2017

A woman’s decision to change or retain her last name in a divorce might seem like a trivial consideration in light of the full circumstances. For women wrestling with this choice as the date of a final decree nears, it is anything but trivial. There is no “right” or “wrong” answer to the question that Texas family lawyers can counsel. This is a decision that solely rests on personal preference and unique factors related to a woman’s case.

Before making a final decision on whether to retain a married name or reclaim maiden name status as a divorce proceeds, consider these points:

• Personal preference – If the desire is to put the marriage and everything about it in the past, dropping the married name can help set up a fresh start. Many women choose this path to reclaim their identities and avoid daily reminders of the marriage. Some may also opt for a name change because of a former spouse’s insistence in the matter.
• Career considerations – If a professional career is founded and cultivated using a married name, some women finding changing it could be detrimental. Doctors, writers, lawyers and others are often known by reputation and name. It is not impossible to reestablish a reputation using a maiden name, but some women simply prefer not to have to rebuild every aspect of their lives following divorce.
• Children – This is one of the biggest reasons women choose to keep their married names. When children are the product of a former union, keeping the same name can make traveling, dealing with schools, making medical appointments and other circumstances easier and less confusing. In some cases, women may feel it is simply better for their children if they retain their married names and the consistency it may represent.
• Other legal considerations – Some women opt to keep their married names if they hold deeds, mortgages, contracts or other legal documents in these names. It is possible, of course, to address each directly following divorce and name change, but not everyone wants to take this particular route.

Making the decision to retain or keep a surname following divorce is a very personal one. Texas family lawyers can help with the paperwork, but the decision will rest with a client. There simply is no right or wrong answer to the question. It’s a matter of choice, convenience and sometimes doing what may be perceived as being in the best interest of children, a career or another important factor.

About Author

Nunneley Family Law has been helping families in the Fort Worth and Mid-Cities area resolve complicated family law issues for over 35 years. Their team of professionals provides the clarity and focus you need to break through the turmoil and reach equitable and fair closure.