How To Legally Change Your Name After A Fort Lauderdale Divorce

If you’re going through a Fort Lauderdale divorce, taking your former name back can play a key role in establishing your independence. Our experienced Fort Lauderdale divorce attorney explains how the process works and the steps you’ll need to take after the court approves your name change.

How Name Changes Work During Fort Lauderdale Divorce

Under the Florida Statutes, the Broward County Family Court can restore a spouse’s former name as part of the divorce process. The easiest time to do this is when the judge issues your final divorce order. Here’s how it works:

• Request it in your divorce petition or response: You can include a name change request when you first file for divorce or in your written response if your spouse filed first.
• Confirm details at the final hearing: When the judge issues a formal judgment for dissolution, they will confirm your request on record and include it in the final order.
• No separate filing needed: Unlike a regular name change, you don’t have to file a separate petition or pay another filing fee when it’s handled through your divorce.
• The court order is your proof: Once signed, your divorce decree serves as legal documentation, allowing you to update your Social Security card, driver’s license, passport, and other records.

If you didn’t request a name change during your Fort Lauderdale divorce, you can still petition for it later. However, doing it this way requires an additional court filing and a small fee.

Steps to Take After the Broward County Court Approves Your Divorce Name Change

Reverting to your former name can help in making a fresh start after a Fort Lauderdale divorce. While the process is relatively simple, there are some steps you’ll need to take in the aftermath. Here’s what to do next:

• Update your identification: Bring a certified copy of your final judgment to the Social Security office and DMV.
• Notify employers and banks: Update all payroll, direct deposit, and retirement accounts.
• Change your insurance and medical records: Ensure your new name matches your driver’s license and ID to prevent claim issues.
• Update titles and deeds: If you own a home, car, or other titled property, make sure ownership records reflect your restored name.
• Change legal documents: Wills, trusts, and powers of attorney should also be updated.

Making these changes early prevents future complications and helps you move forward smoothly under your restored name.

For Help In Making A Fresh Start, Contact Our Experienced Fort Lauderdale Divorce Attorney

Changing your name is more than a legal process. It helps you assert your independence and make a fresh start after a divorce in Fort Lauderdale.

Whether you’re ready to make the change now or want to explore your options, The Law Office of Sandra Bonfiglio is here to help. We guide Fort Lauderdale clients through every stage of the divorce process, including name changes. To start your next chapter with confidence, contact our office and schedule a consultation with our experienced Fort Lauderdale divorce attorney today.

Source:

leg.state.fl.us/statutes/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&URL=0000-0099/0068/Sections/0068.07.html