There are so many steps to divorce that it can be difficult to keep track. For one, how do you go about changing your name after a divorce?

There are a few ways to change your name when a divorce case is finished. The easiest way is to request that your former name be restored by asking for this in the Petition or the Response, depending on which party you are, and have the name change included in the Judgment of Dissolution of Marriage.

This could be by agreement with the other party or by going to trial and having the judge order the judgment at court.

Steps to Divorce: Filing for a Name Change After the Divorce

If you did not get the name change when your California divorce judgment was filed, you can follow up to restore your former name by filing a form called Ex Parte Application for Restoration of Former Name After Entry of Judgment and Order (Family Law).

The steps needed to do this are listed on the California Courts website here.

Steps to Divorce: Changing Your Name to Something New After Divorce

If you want to change your name altogether and do not want to restore your former name, there is a different process you must follow, which requires you to file a petition in the court to ask for the name change.

That process can take several months and can be done regardless of the status of your divorce judgment.  The California Courts website lists the steps you need to take to follow this process.

A San Diego Family Law Attorney Can Help You Through the Steps to Divorce

When you’re going through a divorce, an experienced divorce attorney can help you understand the steps to divorce, including changing your name.

If you are considering divorce or have already made the difficult decision to pursue divorce and have questions, contact JWB Family Law to schedule a free consultation.