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Name Change After Divorce in Florida: What You Need to Know Divorce brings a host of life changes, and for many, reclaiming a former name is a powerful step toward a fresh start. In Florida, changing your name after a divorce is a legal process that can be simple—if you know what to expect. Whether you're hoping to return to your maiden name or adopt a new identity altogether, understanding the legal steps and requirements is key. At Quinn Law, P.A. in Fort Lauderdale, we’ve guided countless individuals through family law matters, including legal name changes following divorce. Here's what you need to know to make the process as smooth as possible. Can I Change My Name as Part of My Divorce? Yes. Florida law allows you to request a name change during divorce proceedings. This is often the most convenient time to make the change, as it can be included directly in your divorce judgment. If you want to return to your maiden name or a prior legal name, you should inform the court before the final judgment is issued. Once approved, the name change becomes official as part of the court's final order. What If I Didn’t Change My Name During the Divorce? If your divorce has already been finalized and you didn’t request a name change at that time, you can still change your name through a separate legal process. This involves filing a Petition for Name Change (Adult) with the circuit court in your county. You will also need to submit fingerprints for a background check and attend a hearing before a judge. Though more involved than changing your name during divorce, this process is still very manageable with proper guidance and preparation. Steps to Legally Change Your Name After Divorce in Florida File a Petition for Name Change (Adult) with the circuit court in your county. Get fingerprinted and complete a criminal background check, as required by Florida law. Attend a court hearing , where the judge will review your petition and may ask you a few questions. Receive a Final Judgment of Name Change , which legally authorizes your new name. Once you have the court order, you’ll need to update your name with various agencies and institutions, including: Social Security Administration Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles Passport office Banks and credit cards Employers and insurance companies Why Timing Matters Changing your name during divorce is usually faster and less expensive than doing it later. It allows you to avoid filing a separate petition and paying additional fees. If you are unsure during the divorce process whether you want to revert to a previous name, it’s still worth discussing with your attorney so your options remain open. Ready to Reclaim Your Name? At Quinn Law, P.A., we understand that a name change after divorce is more than just a legal step—it’s a personal one. Whether you’re preparing for divorce or have already finalized it and want to move forward with a name change, our Fort Lauderdale legal team is here to support you.

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