Tampa Name Change Attorney
There are many issues that arise during divorce. Many people first think of child custody, property division, and alimony as the main issues that must be resolved. For women, though, changing their name is also at the top of their minds. It is not uncommon for women to want to revert back to their maiden name instead of spending the rest of their lives with their former spouse’s surname.
While many of the issues in divorce are incredibly complex, changing your name is actually fairly simple. This is particularly true if you do it as part of the divorce process. The most difficult part for many people is informing the appropriate agencies of the name change. Our Tampa name change attorney can help you through the process and make it as easy as possible for you.
Changing Your Name During the Divorce Process
You can restore your maiden name through a Judgment of Dissolution of Marriage, otherwise known as the divorce decree, in Tampa. This is not an automatic process, though. You must tell the court that you would like to change your name during the process.
Your full name should be listed on the Petition for Dissolution of Marriage. When you attend the final hearing, it is important to spell your maiden name properly so the judge can use the accurate name in the final judgment. After the judge approves your request, you then must inform other agencies about the change. Within 30 days of the date the final judgment is entered, it is important to obtain certified copies that can help when changing your name with other agencies.
Where to Change Your Name
One of the first things you should do after changing your name is to inform the Social Security Administration. You can do this in person or by mail. You will need proof of U.S. citizenship, proof of identity, a certified name change document, and the application. You must change your name with Social Security before you change the name on your driver’s license.
You only have ten days to change your driver’s license in Tampa. The only way to change your driver’s license is by visiting the Department of Motor Vehicles in person. Bring with you proof of your current name, your current driver’s license, proof of Social Security number, proof of U.S. citizenship, and two documents showing that you are a Florida resident.
Other agencies you may have to change your name with include:
- Voter registration,
- Insurance companies,
- Mortgage companies,
- Employers,
- Banks,
- Landlords,
- Credit cards,
- Utilities and other service providers,
- Doctor’s offices, and
- School records.
Each of the above will have their own procedures for changing your name.
Call Our Name Change Attorney in Tampa Today
The best time to change your name is during the divorce process so you can avoid additional petitions and fees. At Florida Law Advisers, P.A., our Tampa name change attorney can guide you through the process so you obtain the best possible outcome. Call us today at 1 (800) 990-7763 or fill out our online form to schedule a consultation and to learn more about how we can help.
