Virginia Name Change Lawyer
Your name is an important part of your identity, which is why there are many requirements involved in the legal process to change it. Virginia has many relevant statutes for the name changes that accompany different milestones in people’s lives, but they can be difficult to understand without the help of an attorney.
If you are getting married, divorced, or even adopting, you might have a need for a new moniker for yourself or a loved one. Fortunately, a skilled family lawyer might be able to assist you with these matters. Get in touch with a Virginia name change lawyer who could take on your unique case and help you achieve your goal.
Marital Name Changes
In addition to pre-marital concerns, such as a prenuptial agreement, a Virginia attorney can file other relevant court papers for a name change.
According to a study by The Pew Research Center, 80 percent of brides take their husband’s last name. Should a fiancé wish to take their partner’s last name, they may do so through the state court system. A resident of the state may begin the process of changing their name by filing a sworn application with their county circuit court.
Post-Divorce Decree Name Reversions
If an estranged spouse would like to revert their last name to a previous one, a name change attorney in the Virginia area may be crucial to helping an individual petition the court for this order. State law stipulates that a party of a marriage may file a motion that restores their name to either a former name or their maiden name.
A name change order will be a separate order from the divorce decree. However, it may be issued upon the granting of the dissolution. Other rulings that could be made with the final dissolution order include custody orders, child and spousal support agreements, and insurance matters.
Name Changes in Virginia Family Adoptions
The rules for Virginia adoptions are memorialized in Title 63 of the Virginia Code.
This statute outlines the order of proceedings for the adoption of a youth, as well as the process of securing a name change for them. These cases may occur at the family’s county circuit court. Alternatively, the family or other parties may request a hearing in the county where the adoption agency is located or the home county of the birth parents. All family courts in the state will operate under the Code of Virginia.
The adoption of adults, ages 18 and older, is governed by this area of law, as well. State law outlines that an adult who is being adopted must consent to the petition for adoption that is filed with the court. Upon entry of the final order, the court may change the adoptee’s name.
Speak with a Virginia Name Change Attorney Today
Whether your name change issues fall under the categories of marriage, divorce, adoption, or another familial concern, you may benefit from a consultation with a legal professional. Obtaining a legal name change can be difficult, but a skilled Virginia attorney could help simplify the process. If you want to change your name or that of a family member, call our office today to schedule a consultation.
