Legal Question in Civil Litigation in Florida

Legal Name Change - Question on which state to file in

Hi there

I want to change back to my maiden name after a divorce (several years ago). The problem is I am a legal resident of FL, but am in the military and live outside the state. Do I petition for a name change in FL or in the state in which I currently reside?

Also, if I have to file in FL, do I need to appear in person or can I mail the forms in and file for the name change in abstentia?

Thank you so much for your time. If you would be so kind as to clear this up for me, I will order the necessary forms from your site.

Thank you!!

Suzanne


Asked on 6/03/02, 3:40 am

2 Answers from Attorneys
Michael Hendrickson Law Office Michael E. Hendrickson

Re: Legal Name Change - Question on which state to file in

You can file your petition for a name change in the Virginia circuit court of the city or county where you currently reside.

You may be able to download the necessary forms from the court's website or obtain them from the

clerk of court.

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Answered on 6/03/02, 7:52 am
David Slater David P. Slater, Esq.

Re: Legal Name Change - Question on which state to file in

Since you are a resident of Florida I question whether Virginia would take jurisdiction of the name change. You could have had the Florida divorce decree permit you to resume your maiden name The court may permit you to modify the divorce decree now to permit you to use your maiden name however, this application would be on notice to your ex. Since you are in the military the court may waive your appearance.

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Answered on 6/04/02, 12:57 am


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