Home | Changing Your Name After Divorce

Changing Your Name After Divorce

By: Alicia Fastman | Sep 24, 2019 | Divorce, Family Law

DOMESTIC_RELATIONS_Name_Changes-min-min

Changing Your Name After Divorce

If you are getting a divorce or have already obtained a decree in divorce, and if you want to change your name back to your maiden name, it may be easier than you think.

A spouse can elect to resume their prior name in Pennsylvania either before or after the entry of a divorce decree so long as divorce proceedings are pending. A Notice of Intention to Retake Prior Name is signed in the presence of a notary and is filed with the court. Once a certified copy of that notice is received, it can be used to change one’s name on identifications and other documents as needed.

If you are getting a divorce and you do not want your spouse to continue to use your last name, the court will not allow you to force them to make that change. Resuming one’s name prior to marriage is an elective decision to be made by the individual and the other spouse will not have the ability to control whether or not this occurs.

If you are in the process of getting divorced, we can be of help regarding this and any other issue that arises. Click or Call 610-892-3877

About the author

About Alicia Fastman

Alicia Fastman graduated from Hofstra University with a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology, then went on to complete her Juris Doctorate at the Widener University School of Law in Wilmington, DE. Alicia graduated from law school with pro bono distinction, completed a Certificate in Criminal Law, and focused her intensive studies within the fields of litigation and trial advocacy. Alicia joined LaMonaca Law in April of 2011 and is a Partner at the firm. She was selected as a Top Lawyer in Main Line Magazine in 2014, 2016, 2017, and 2019 in the areas of Family Law and Divorce and has been named as a Best Lawyer in the areas of Adoption and Trial in the Delaware County Daily Times. Alicia is licensed to practice law in Pennsylvania, and is a member of the Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, and Delaware County Bar Associations. Alicia resides in Delaware County with her dog, Leonard. In her time outside of the courtroom or office, she enjoys creating art, listening to podcasts, and spending time with friends and family.

AWARDS AND RECOGNITIONS

Google Rating

4.7

Based on 142 reviews

LaMonaca Law

4.7

review us on See all reviews

1700746093

I highly recommend Andrew Francos as an attorney. I took him an emotion filled, confusing, complicated support case. Andrew removed the emotion and simplified the issue to bring the case to a successful conclusion.

1696012784

Pricing is outrageous, but apparently that is the norm. My lawyer did seem to do a good job with stating facts in the court room, but I still lost. Nothing that was presented, facts, proof, all of what we presented over 6 hours ALL proving in my favor. It didn’t matter. I somehow still lost. My son is losing even more.I think my lawyer did a nice job in court, but it didn’t matter. The person without a lawyer, without proof of anything except he could not handle more time, still won. As soon as we got the new order, he was in contempt. But nothing can be done about it. Apparently I need to fight more with no guarantees.It doesn’t matter if you have a good lawyer, the judge makes all the calls.

1694008461

I cannot express our gratitude for this law firm! Our lawyer Michael Galantino made us feel welcome right from start and was very punctual and professional in court. Amazing job and finding justice for us and our family. Thank you so much !

Chantel Houston

1693405974

Ridiculously priced for a horrible job representing me. It should be illegal how much they charged me and left me completely unsatisfied. Filing things incorrectly, charging me hundreds of dollars still for those filings, and much more. I would not recommend this law firm to anyone. Now a year later still paying off this law firm and never received a final copy with signatures, my lawyer Jane never even finished the job in making sure I received hard copy or a usable copy of my custody order. Completely unsatisfied and do not recommend!

1691766020

I am extremely grateful for the exceptional legal assistance I received from Mike Galantino at LaMonaca Law during my divorce process. His expertise and unwavering guidance proved instrumental in ensuring the smooth progression of what could have been a complex and overwhelming ordeal.From day one, Mike's adept handling of the situation put me at ease. His knowledge of the legal intricacies, combined with his supportive approach, truly set him apart. Thanks to his strategic guidance, my divorce was finalized in a remarkably efficient nine months, a testament to his commitment to navigating the process with proficiency and care.Mike's willingness to address all of my questions, no matter how big or small, was remarkable. I felt empowered by his thorough explanations, which aided me in making informed decisions every step of the way. It was evident that he wasn't just focused on the legalities, but also on streamlining the entire process in a cost-effective manner, which was incredibly appreciated.Looking forward, I have every intention of continuing to rely on Mike and the LaMonaca Law team for my future custody-related matters. The trust I have developed in his abilities is unwavering, and I am confident that he will continue to provide the same level of dedicated and skilled assistance that I have come to depend on.In a challenging time, Mike's professionalism, empathy, and legal prowess were a true blessing. I wholeheartedly recommend his services to anyone in need of expert legal representation.Thank you, Mike, for your outstanding support and guidance.

1688566880

Within two months of taking on my case, $3,000 out of the initial $5,000 retainer has been depleted. Instead of discussing all the available options upfront, they prefer to present one possibility at a time, fully aware of its low probability of success. This strategy is designed to deplete your funds by prolonging the process and proposing unnecessary solutions, rather than laying out all the alternatives for a comprehensive discussion. Be wary, as they have a penchant for inundating you with countless emails, even for simple confirmations, all while charging exorbitant fees of $70 or more for a mere sentence.

Brett Waddington

1687795297

I was involved in a custody battle and had to get a new lawyer (for a few reasons). I chose Teresa Mallon. Teresa is an exceptional lawyer who fought for me and helped me through my lengthy custody battle. She had to take a leave of absence but did not leave me in bad hands. She gave me some suggestions on who would be excellent to represent me. I chose to stay with LaMonaca Law and have Mike G represent me. Again, I felt in great hands as he was prepared, knowledgeable, professional, etc. Although being a single father, they worked with me and held my hand throughout the entire agonizing process. Now I have my daughter an equal amount of time and feel so much better. Thank you LaMonaca Law.

1681327144

I am grateful for the exceptional assistance provided by LaMonaca Law during a very difficult time. Specifically, I had the pleasure of working with Gerry Gebhart, who expertly guided me through the entire legal process. Even though my opposing lawyer was in an attacking mode, Gerry remained calm, cool, and collected. He was able to manage the situation effectively, avoiding a costly and time-consuming trial.Throughout the entire process, Gerry demonstrated remarkable responsiveness, always keeping me informed and addressing any concerns I had promptly. He also displayed excellent analytical skills, carefully analyzing the situation and coming up with the best approach to achieve the desired outcome. Additionally, his good research skills allowed him to gather all the necessary information to support our case.Gerry also has excellent speaking and listening skills, which were invaluable in managing the situation between the parties. He patiently listened to all sides and effectively communicated our needs and priorities. He was always well-prepared and organized, ensuring that I was as well.Overall, I could not be more pleased with the service provided by LaMonaca Law and Gerry Gebhart in particular. If you are in need of a family lawyer, I highly recommend their services. Their professionalism, expertise, and commitment to client satisfaction are unparalleled. Thank you, LaMonaca Law and Gerry Gebhart, for all your help and support during this difficult time.

1678980848

I strongly recommend Chris Casserly. He helped me through one of the hardest times in my life with so much compassion, empathy and respect. He listened to each and every concern I had and fought to ensure that I my children and I were safe and secure through this process. I cannot thank him enough for all that he has done.

1673825080

Mike definitely deserves more then 5 stars if I could give him a million stars! Mike is the best, most professional, caring lawyer. He will go out of his way to answer his clients anytime. Holidays, weekends, sick days, vacation, he will get back to his clients anytime!!! Mike is definitely rated a 10/10 & very recommended!!