Legal Question in Family Law in Georgia
On my divorce papers my maiden name was restored to me, I don't want to go back to my maiden name! Legally do I have to?
2 Answers from Attorneys
If you did what you should have, you had a lawyer representing you. If that's the case, call the lawyer.
If you made the mistake of representing yourself, the answer depends on the county, how long ago it was, what the papers that were filed said, and whether you were plaintiff or defendant.
If your papers asked for it, you probably are out of luck to do an easy fix, but some judges, if you act quickly, might amend the divorce papers if you send a letter to the judge requesting that this be changed or corrected. That is in the discretion of the judge.
If the judge says no, you will have to file a new name change case. That will cost you $205 or more in court filing fees, a $40-$80 publication fee and attorneys fees that vary by county and by lawyer.
If you had a lawyer, talk to him or her. He or she should try a nd get this fixed for you if it was the lawyer's fault. If not, try the steps recommended by Attorney Ashman.