Legal Question in Family Law in Texas

Name change legal without divorce from long-lost spouse?

My mother (who is 67) had an alcoholic, abusive husband who beat her repeatedly while they were living in Texas. She escaped and moved to North Carolina about 10 years ago. She has no idea where her husband is or if he's still alive. She wants to use her maiden name legally but is on Social Security and has no money for court action. Does she have to get a divorce to change her name? She hates having his last name on her government checks, driver's license, etc.


Asked on 10/07/99, 3:01 pm

1 Answer from Attorneys
Alicia Fortson Law Offices of A. G. Fortson

Re: Name change legal without divorce from long-lost spouse?

No, she does not need a divorce to file for a name change. In Texas, one of the considerations a judge makes in granting an adult name change is whether the person is seeking to defraud creditors.

If I can be of further assistance, please contact my law office at 214-712-9242.

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Answered on 10/16/99, 12:45 am


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