Most divorced women decide to retain their married name. But this blog provides advice on what to consider if you want to change your name after divorce.
For some women it is important to revert back to their maiden name once they are divorced, to help them move on with their new independent life.
What to consider before changing your name
1. Different surname to your children.
You will have a different surname to your children. If you have young or teenage children, a change in your surname may risk causing further upset about the divorce of their parents.
2. Other parent’s consent to change the children’s names.
You should also be aware that if you have children under the age of 16, then the other parent must give his or her written consent should you want to change the children’s name as well.
3. Travelling abroard with the children.
Having a different surname to your children may mean that when you travel abroad with children under the age of 18, you may be asked questions about your relationship with the children and whether you have the consent of the other parent. (There are ways to alleviate this problem, which is a topic for another blog).
How to change your name
There are several ways of doing this:
1. Calling yourself by your maiden name.
There is no requirement for a legal document to be produced to prove a change of name on bank accounts, passport and driving license. Providing your Decree Absolute certificate and a copy of your marriage certificate should be sufficient.
2. Change of Name Deed.
This isn’t as readily available as it used to be but some solicitors still offer to create a Change of Name Deed which you can then use as proof of your change of name. (One of my clients wished to proceed on this basis even knowing the other options as she wanted a formal legal document created by a solicitor).
3. Deed Poll.
You can change your name by Deed Poll by completing the relevant application form and paying the fee. Please click on the following link for more information: Change Name by Deed Poll.
What to do once you have changed your name.
As well as telling people to start referring to you by your new name, you will also need to have important documentation changed to reflect the change of name;
- Passport
- Driving license
- Bank account details
- Bills
- Your records with your doctor, dentist, employers, HMRC etc.
Reverting back to your maiden name after divorce should be a carefully considered decision.
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