Aka: The Legal Significance of 'Also Known As'

Definition & Meaning

The term "aka" stands for "also known as." It is commonly used to indicate that a person has an alternative name, which may include a nickname, initials, or a name that differs from their legal name, such as a maiden or married name. This abbreviation helps clarify identity, especially in legal documents or discussions where multiple names may be relevant.

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Real-world examples

Here are a couple of examples of abatement:

Example 1: A woman named Jane Smith may be known as Jane Doe after marriage. In legal documents, she might be referred to as Jane Smith, aka Jane Doe.

Example 2: A person named Robert Johnson may use the nickname "Bobby." In a legal contract, he might be identified as Robert Johnson, aka Bobby. (hypothetical example)

State-by-state differences

Examples of state differences (not exhaustive):

State Notes
California Commonly allows aliases in legal documents.
New York Aliases must be disclosed in certain legal filings.
Texas Alias usage may be restricted in official documents.

This is not a complete list. State laws vary and users should consult local rules for specific guidance.

Comparison with related terms

Term Definition Difference
Alias A name that a person uses instead of their legal name. Aka is a specific type of alias that means "also known as."
Nickname A familiar or informal name given to a person. A nickname may not be used in legal contexts, while aka is often required.

What to do if this term applies to you

If you need to use an aka in legal documents:

  • Ensure that all names are consistently used across documents.
  • Consult with a legal professional if you are unsure about how to properly include your aka.
  • Consider using US Legal Forms to access templates that can help you properly document your aka.

Quick facts

  • Common Use: Legal documents, contracts, court filings.
  • Variability: Usage and requirements may differ by state.
  • Importance: Clarifies identity in legal contexts.

Key takeaways

Frequently asked questions

Aka means "also known as" and is used to indicate alternative names.