What are the Disadvantages of Not Changing Names After Divorce?
Navigating the process of divorce can be challenging, especially with the decision of keeping or losing your married name. If you’re thinking about this, we’re here to advise you on the implications of not name-changing after divorce.
Understandably, you may prefer to keep your married surname for your children or to avoid an administrative headache.
We’ve shared the implications of not changing names after divorce and provided guidance on changing your last name after divorce should you decide to do so.
Disadvantages of not changing names after divorce
Loss of professional identity and reputation
For many individuals, their workplace identity and reputation are closely tied to their surname, especially for professionals such as doctors and lawyers. Changing names following divorce may, in some circumstances, lead to confusion in professional circles, although these concerns shouldn’t be a problem. While we may fear losing our professional identity, the reality is that it is perfectly normal to revert to a maiden name after divorce. Admittedly, it can cause confusion with email addresses and correspondence, but this is normally short-lived.
Emotional and psychological impact
Keeping your married name may serve as a constant reminder of a painful past, making it harder to move on. The name may carry emotional baggage, preventing a complete sense of closure from the marriage. Yet changing surnames can symbolise a fresh start, helping individuals to emotionally detach from a previous marriage, especially if the ex-partner was emotionally abusive.
Social perceptions and personal life
There are societal expectations about reverting to a maiden name post-divorce. Keeping your married name might lead to awkwardness in social circles, especially if your ex-spouse is still present in those circles. It can also create confusion in situations involving your children, especially if they have your ex-spouse’s surname, leading to assumptions about marital status and family dynamics.
Legal and administrative headache
Changing your name means plenty of paperwork. If you decide later to revert to your maiden name or another surname, the process can be hefty. You must fill in application forms to change the name on your passport, driving licence, bank accounts, council tax, and utility bills. You may also need to change your name for your mortgage and land registry purposes. If you run a business, you must inform HMRC and Companies House.
Identity, personal autonomy, and relationships
For some, keeping a married name might feel like a loss of individuality, especially if the marriage ends on bad terms. Changing your name after divorce may allow you to reclaim your identity, separate from your ex-spouse. It can be a vital step towards re-establishing yourself as an independent individual free from any associations with your past marriage.
Retaining a married name can also have implications for future relationships. New partners might be uncomfortable with the reminder of a past marriage, or it might lead to misunderstandings about your marital status. Changing your name can help with a new start, making it easier to establish new relationships without the shadow of a previous marriage looming over you.
How to change your surname after divorce
You don’t need to follow a legal process to use your maiden name after divorce. In many cases, to change to your maiden name, you can simply show record-holders your marriage certificate, civil partnership certificate, and Final Order.
Without a deed poll, some organisations will not change your name back. A deed poll is a legal document that proves your name change. You can apply for a deed poll online or through a solicitor.
You should change your name on important documents, such as your passport, driving licence, and any other identification records. You should inform any organisations you deal with, such as your employer and bank, HMRC, Companies House, insurance companies, utility providers, etc.
While there are some legal and practical disadvantages,you are legally entitled to keep your married name after divorce. . The decision is personal and should be based on what feels right for you, considering all the potential implications. .
You may choose to keep your married name for the sake of your children despite the implications. If you decide to have a name change after divorce, the process in the UK is straightforward and can be a meaningful step towards reclaiming your autonomy and starting fresh.
If you need any advice on changing your name after your divorce or dissolution, contact our team of divorce solicitors today, who can advise you.
Guillaumes LLP Solicitors is a full-service law firm based in Weybridge, Surrey. We are a highly experienced divorce and family law team who can assist you with any aspect of your name change after divorce. To make an appointment, please call us on 01932 840 111.