Questions:

• I just don't like my birth name and I want to change it. Can I choose any name I want?
• Can I change my name if my marriage is common law?
• How do I implement my name change?
• Do I have to go to court to change my name after marriage or divorce?
• What should I do if I have a hard time getting my new name accepted?

Answer:

Do I have to go to court to change my name after marriage or divorce?

As long as you're changing to your new spouse's name, or returning to your old name, you can usually use the usage method to change your name after you get married or divorced -- you simply start using your new, or old, name. You'll need to provide proof of your name change, but showing your marriage certificate or divorce decree should be enough. However, if you want to change to a new name (for example, you and your new spouse are both taking on a name that's new to both of you, or you want a new name after a divorce) you'll have to get a court order. (For information on changing your name after marriage or divorce, read Nolo's articles  Changing Your Name After Marriage or Changing Your Name After Divorce.)