#Should i divorce my husband checklist update

Of course, some of this depends on whether the couple acquired the finances before or during the marriage. The courts generally classify finances or large assets during divorce as separate or marital property. Joint bank accounts, for example, present a challenge unto themselves during and after the divorce. Financial Changesįinancial troubles do not end once the divorce proceeding determines alimony, separation, and assets. Failing to do so can result in identity troubles down the road, along with plenty of confusion.

You must also change social security cards, bank accounts, and other critical resources to reflect the new name.

#Should i divorce my husband checklist update

Either way, a name change does not signify the loss of a legal relationship between parent and child.įollowing a name change, it is important to update all personal information across all platforms and contexts. Ultimately, it may require a court order to change the name of children – unless a new stepparent is adopting them. Traditional law allows for fathers to petition to keep their children’s name the same, but this has come under scrutiny in recent years, and the decision comes down to the judge. Loss of documents, lack of evidence – such as recent immigration status – or taking on a new, unused name may be obstacles to the name change process.Ĭhanging the name of children – usually to the mother’s maiden name – is more complicated. This process is considerably easier for those restoring an old name for which they have documentation and proof of using previously. If the court documents do not require a name change, however, it may be necessary to file an ex parte application, or FL-395 in California, that allows a judge to change the divorce documents to allow for a name change. However, if you’ve taken your spouse’s name during a marriage, the law doesn’t require you to return to your former name.Ĭourt documents will need to be clear. Either way, changing one’s name following a divorce is a common first step – and can be as simple as providing proof of the divorce to initiate a name restoration.

Most marriages involve some form of name change, whether the traditional method of changing the wife’s name to her husband’s, hyphenated naming conventions, or even husbands taking their wives’ names. The most obvious symbol of marriage is the naming tradition. If you recently divorced your spouse, keep this checklist in mind for next steps. Unfortunately, you and your ex-spouse may still have some things to do after you’ve both signed off on the marriage’s dissolution. When it involves large assets or children, it can also be complicated. Even the most amicable divorce can be stressful.