Legal Question in Family Law in New Jersey
Name Change ~ After Divorce
My divorce was official 3/21/01. I had the option of changing my name back to my maiden name for free. I didn't/don't want that but I don't want my married name either. I've always used my first & middle name, thus I only wish to drop my married name altogether & use my first & middle names as my whole name. Though I told my divorce attorney many times, I assume he ignored my wishes or didn't know what to do w/my agreement. Now it appears that I'm stuck but I can't believe that could be possible. I just want to drop my surname! ''Elizabeth'' would now be my ''last'' name. I'm already using it for my career & many other things. Am I ''legal'' in doing this since it is already my name & I am simply dropping my last name? Or do I have to do this ''legally?'' Should I have to pay, especially since it is due to the end of my nuptuals and my attorney? In NJ, I think it's a very large fee/sum to ''change'' a name.Can you help me?
1 Answer from Attorneys
Re: Name Change ~ After Divorce
You should have been a little more pushy with your lawyer. This could have been accomplished very easily at the time of your divorce. It still can be done, maybe by Consent Order. If not, then a motion can be filed to allow the use of any name, as long as you are not changing your name to avoid creditors or criminal proceedings, or for any other unlawful purpose. This can be done under your matrimonial matter, but you should not delay any longer. Keep in mind that this advice is based purely on the little bit of information that you have given to me. There may be other factors that would change my opinion. Further, no one can rely on advice from an attorney who has not been retained. You should contact your attorney to get this done immediately. Good luck!
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