You don’t need special permission to use a different name in Queens, NY. However, if you want your new name to be officially recognized, a legal name change lawyer can guide you through the application process. Below, we outline the documents that you’ll need to provide for a legal name change in various different circumstances.
Documents Needed for a Legal Name Change in Queens, NY
Marriage
Changing your surname through marriage is simple. When applying for your marriage license you can specify your new preferred surname. Men and women can both change their legal name this way. You can choose any new surname that is one of the following:
- Your spouse’s current surname
- A former surname of either party
- A combination of both current surnames
- A combination of previous surnames
If your desired new name doesn’t meet the above criteria, or you also want to change your first or middle name, you will need to go through the separate name change process detailed below. This includes supplying the court with all forms of required documentation.
Divorce
To revert to your pre-marriage name, you can include a request in the divorce petition. Your change of name will be reflected in the divorce decree which can be used to update your details on other legal documents.
If you didn’t include a change of name request in the divorce petition, the court may agree to alter the divorce decree retrospectively. If your request is refused, you will need to go through the full change of name application.
Citizenship
When you become a US citizen, you can specify a new name on the USCIS N-400 Form. If accepted, your name will be legally changed when the swearing-in ceremony is complete, with no other documents required.
Other Reasons for a Name Change
If your name can’t be changed as part of the marriage, divorce, or naturalization process, or if your request is being made for different reasons, you will need to complete a full change of name application. There is no automatic right to a change of name, so the court will need to grant permission. You will need to provide various documents as part of this process:
- Completed Name Change Petition and Proposed Order
- Birth certificate (or other legal proof of birth if outside the USA)
- Completed Request for Judicial Intervention (for cases being referred to the Supreme Court)
The court will want to be satisfied there are legitimate reasons for the name change. You may therefore also be asked to supply any of the following, where applicable:
- Certificate of Incarceration or Certificate of Disposition
- Bankruptcy judgment
- Liens or judgments against you or your property
- Child or spousal support order
Get Help From a Legal Name Change Lawyer
An experienced lawyer can guide you through the name change process and ensure all court documentation is properly completed. In some circumstances, they may also be able to get the records sealed or the requirement for public notification waived.
Whatever your situation, we can help with a legal change of name. Contact our Queens name change lawyers at Simon & Gilman, LLP in Queens, NY to get started today.
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