We often get questions about whether or not it’s possible to change your name during a divorce. Divorce is not just the end of a marriage—it is often the start of a new chapter in life. For many people, that means choosing to return to their maiden name or adopting a different legal name altogether. In Oklahoma, the divorce process provides a straightforward opportunity to request a name change.
Can You Change Your Name as Part of a Divorce?
Oklahoma law allows you to request a name change as part of your divorce proceedings. This is often simpler than filing a separate case after the divorce is final because it can be handled directly in your divorce petition or decree.
How Do You Request a Name Change?
If you want to request a name change, there’s a simple process for you to follow:
- Include It in Your Divorce Petition or Response
- When you file for divorce (or respond to your spouse’s filing), you can include a request to restore your former name or change to another name of your choice.
- Court Approval
- The judge will review your request and, if granted, your new name will be included in the final divorce decree.
- Updating Your Records
- Once approved, you can use the divorce decree as proof of your name change to update:
- Social Security records
- Driver’s license and state ID
- Passport
- Bank accounts and other personal records
- Once approved, you can use the divorce decree as proof of your name change to update:
Oklahoma courts generally approve name changes as long as they are not being done for fraudulent or illegal purposes. For example, you cannot change your name to avoid debts or criminal charges.
Do You Have to Pay Extra Fees?
If the change is in your divorce paperwork, there is no separate filing fee. Filing for the change as a separate legal action after the divorce, however, often requires additional costs and a separate court hearing.
What If You Don’t Make the Request During the Divorce?
If you decide later that you want to change your name, you can still do so, but you will need to file a separate name change petition and follow additional court procedures.
Tulsa Divorce Attorneys
You can change your name during a divorce in Oklahoma, and it is often the easiest and most cost-effective time to do so. By including the request in your divorce paperwork, you can avoid extra court hearings and filing fees later. While the process is easy, it’s still important to approach it with legal guidance to protect your rights and interests. Contact us today at Tulsa Divorce Attorneys & Associates by calling 539-302-0303 or contact us online.