Can You Legally Change Your Last Name?
Changing one’s last name can be a personal decision, whether it is due to marriage, divorce, or simply wanting a fresh start. However, many people are unsure if it is legal to change last name and what the process entails. In this article, we will discuss the legality of changing one’s last name and the steps required to do so. Legal Basis for Changing Your Last Name In the United States, changing one’s last name is generally legal as long as the individual is not doing so to commit fraud or evade debt. The right to change one’s name is protected under the First Amendment of the U.S. Constitution, which guarantees freedom of speech and expression. However, the specific requirements for changing one’s name may vary depending on the state in which one resides. The process for changing one’s last name can vary depending on the reason for the change. The most common reasons for changing one’s last name include marriage, divorce, or simply wanting a different name. The specific requiremen...