Changing one’s name after marriage is a common practice for many couples. Family law lawyers can help individuals navigate the legal process of changing their name after marriage. They can provide advice and assistance regarding the paperwork, fees, and other requirements involved in legally changing one’s name. 

Additionally, family law lawyers can provide guidance on other related matters, such as updating driver’s licenses, Social Security cards, and bank accounts with the new name. They also have knowledge of state laws that may affect the name change process. 

By consulting family law lawyers, couples can ensure that their legal documents are updated correctly to reflect their new married names.

Family Law Lawyers: Process of Changing Name After Marriage

Family law lawyers can help individuals who are looking to change their name after marriage. The process of changing a name is complex and requires the expertise of a family law attorney. 

Aside from assisting in the process of changing your name after marriage, family law lawyers can help couples navigate other issues related to marriage, such as prenuptial agreements and divorce proceedings. But first, let us identify what a family law attorney is. 

1. Obtain a copy of your marriage certificate: 

To obtain a copy of your marriage certificate, you will need to contact the government agency that issued the original certificate. This is typically the county clerk’s office where the marriage license was filed.

2. Change your name on your Social Security card: 

To change your name on your Social Security card after marriage, you will need to provide the following documents to the Social Security Administration (SSA):

• A completed application for a Social Security card (Form SS-5)
• Identification that verifies your legal presence in the United States, such as a driver’s license, passport, or state-issued ID
• If not a citizen yet, a U.S. citizenship or immigration status is needed
• Marriage certificate (original or certified copy)

3. Modify your driver’s license or state identification card: 

To update your driver’s license or state ID card after changing your name, you will need to visit your state’s Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) or equivalent agency in person. You have to present the following documents:

• Marriage licenses and court orders are acceptable as proof of a legally recognized name change.
• Proof of your identity. This includes a valid driver’s license or passport. 
• A lease or utility bill showing your current address is acceptable proof of residence.
• Payment for any fees associated with the name change and issuance of a new driver’s license or ID card

4. Change the vehicle title and registration information:

Another crucial step that differs greatly from state to state is renewing your vehicle’s title and registration. Most states have distinct driver’s license and motor vehicle agencies, however other DMVs handle both functions.

5. Change the name on your passport: 

US travel requires a driver’s license or state ID. Update your passport if you’re traveling abroad. Name changes are free for passports under a year old. Your new passport would require a processing charge if it was issued more than a year ago. If your passport was granted more than a year ago, DS-82, DS-5504, or DS-11 forms are required.

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6. Update your name in the United States Postal Service (USPS) and voter registration information:

If you moved after your marriage, update your name and address with USPS. Check out moversguide.usps.com. Update your voter registration. Download and mail the National Voter Registration Application or visit vote.gov.

7. Update your bank and credit card information:

To update your bank and credit union accounts after changing your name, you must visit the financial institution(s) in person or contact them by phone or mail.

Family Lawyers: Family Law Legal Issues

An attorney who focuses their practice on family law handles cases including domestic abuse, child support, child custody, adoption, and other issues that affect families. They can provide legal representation and advice to clients in these types of cases and help them navigate the legal system.

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Roles of Family Law Lawyers

Family law attorneys have a variety of roles, including:

• Representing clients in family law court: Family law attorneys can represent their clients in court, advocating on their behalf and presenting evidence to support their case.
• Negotiating settlements: Family law attorneys can negotiate settlements on behalf of their clients, helping them to come to an agreement with the other party without going to court.
• Drafting legal documents: Family law attorneys can draft legal documents such as divorce petitions, custody agreements, and prenuptial agreements.
• Advising clients: Family law attorneys can advise their clients on their rights and the legal consequences of various actions and can help them make informed decisions about their family law lawsuits.
• Providing guidance and support: Family law lawyers can provide guidance and support to their clients throughout the legal process, helping them to understand the steps they need to take and what to expect.
• Helping in enforcement or modification of court orders: Lawyers for family disputes can help their clients in enforcing or modifying court orders related to child custody, child support, spousal support, etc.
• Assisting in the Adoption process: Family law attorneys can help clients with the legal process of adopting a child, including advising on the rules and regulations and representing them in court.
• Managing Domestic Violence issues: Domestic violence is another area in which family lawyers can assist their clients, both in and out of court.

How to Choose the Best Family Law Lawyers

Choosing the best family law attorney for your case can be a challenging task. Checkout these tips in finding the right attorney for you:

1. Look for an attorney with experience: 

Choose an attorney who has experience handling cases similar to yours. Family law is a broad field and not all attorneys have experience in every area.

2. Check their credentials: 

Look at the attorney’s credentials, including their education, professional associations, and certifications.

3. Get referrals: 

Ask friends and family for referrals, or check online reviews.

4. Schedule a consultation: 

Schedule a consultation with the attorney to discuss your case and get a sense of their personality and communication style.

Conclusion

In summary, it’s important to understand the legal process of changing your name after marriage, which is where family law lawyers come in. A family law lawyer can help you navigate the legal process of changing your name, ensuring that all documents are properly filed and that all necessary steps are taken. With the help of a family law lawyer, you can ensure that your name change is done quickly and correctly so that you can start using your new name right away.