Changing Name After Divorce: Easy Actions to Take Back Your Maiden Name After Divorce in Wisconsin
When a marriage comes to an end, deciding whether to keep your soon-to-be-ex-spouse’s last name can be a complex choice. Some individuals retain the marital surname for various reasons, such as matching their children’s last name or aligning with professional licenses. On the other hand, some may choose to revert to their maiden name, distancing themselves from the past. Fortunately, changing your name after divorce is one of the less challenging aspects of the divorce process. In Wisconsin, the law permits either spouse to resume a former last name when a divorce is granted.
Changing Name After Divorce: Understanding Name Change Options in Wisconsin
The process of changing your name after divorce is relatively straightforward in Wisconsin. The state’s law allows you to adopt any former legal name, such as a maiden name, a prior name, or even a former spouse’s surname. To make this change, you need to request it as part of the divorce proceedings or you will have to go through a different process of changing name after divorce. The court includes the name change in the divorce order, and there are no restrictions beyond the requirement that the name must be a previous legal name.
Navigating the Name Change Process for Minors
If the name change involves a minor, the process differs slightly. For minors under the age of 14, both parent needs to be involved and agree in the name change documentation. Those aged 14 and older follow the same process as adults. The steps include:
- Filling out the Notice and Order for Name Change Hearing form (CV-460).
- Completing an Order for Name Change form (CV-470) or allowing the Clerk of Court to complete it for you.
- Filing the required forms and paying the necessary fee to the Clerk of Court in your county.
- Publishing the Notice and Order for Name Change Hearing in a local newspaper for three weeks.
- Attending the name change hearing and presenting your birth certificate.
- Filing the Order for Name Change after the hearing.
Changing Name After Divorce is Completed
For situations outside of the divorce process, such as wanting to change your name after you initially decided to keep married name at the end of your divorce, you’ll need to petition the court for a name change order. Any Wisconsin resident can file a petition to change their name. This process includes the following steps:
- Filling out a Petition for Name Change form (CV-450 for adults or minors aged 14 and over, CV-455 for minors under 14).
- Completing a Notice and Order for Name Change Hearing form (CV-460).
- Filling out an Order for Name Change form (CV-470) or allowing the Clerk of Court to complete it.
- Filing the required forms and paying the fee to the Clerk of Court.
- Publishing the Notice and Order for Name Change Hearing in a local newspaper for three weeks.
- Attending the name change hearing and bringing your birth certificate.
- Filing the Order for Name Change.
Changing Name After Divorce: Updating Official Documentation
Once the name change is approved by the court, you’ll need to update your identification documents. Start by visiting your local Social Security office to update your Social Security card. Then, head to the Wisconsin Department of Transportation to update your driver’s license or identification card. Don’t forget to update other important documents, such as your voter registration, car title certificates, and birth certificate.
Changing Name After Divorce: Informing Others of Your Name Change
Changing your name involves updating numerous records and informing various individuals and entities. Notify your family, friends, employers, and neighbors of your name change. Additionally, update your bank, credit card company, insurance provider, and utility companies. Be sure to update your email and social media accounts as well to reflect your new name.
Obtaining the Required Forms to Changing Name After Divorce
Completing a name change requires various forms and documentation. Below is a link to the forms that are provided by the court system.
- Wisconsin Courts – Divorce Forms: https://www.wicourts.gov/formdisplay/FA-4100V_instructions.pdf?formNumber=FA-4100V&formType=Instructions&formatId=2&language=en
- Wisconsin eCourts – Forms: https://www.wicourts.gov/ecourts/prose.htm
Contact Dahlberg Law Group for Assistance Changing Name After Divorce
If you’re navigating the name change process in Wisconsin, whether due to divorce or other reasons, consider seeking guidance from the experienced family law attorneys at Dahlberg Law Group. Attorney Latrice Knighton and Attorney Paul Santilli are ready to assist you. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation.
Frequently Asked Questions About Changing Name After Divorce:
Q: How can I change my name after divorce in Wisconsin? A: Changing your name after divorce in Wisconsin is relatively simple. You can request the name change as part of the divorce proceedings. The court will include the name change in the divorce order.
Q: Can minors change their names in Wisconsin? A: Yes, minors can change their names in Wisconsin. Those under 14 need at least one parent involved in the process, while those aged 14 and over follow the same steps as adults.
Q: What is the process for petitioning a name change in Wisconsin? A: Any Wisconsin resident can petition the court to change their name. The process involves filling out a petition form, attending a hearing, and updating identification documents.
Q: How do I update my identification documents due to changing name after divorce? A: After a name change, start by updating your Social Security card at your local office. Then, visit the Wisconsin Department of Transportation to update your driver’s license or ID card. Update other documents like voter registration, car title certificates, and birth certificates.
Q: Can I get help with the name change process? A: Yes, seeking assistance from experienced family law attorneys, such as Attorney Latrice Knighton or Attorney Paul Santilli at Dahlberg Law Group, can provide valuable guidance through the name change process.
