Full question:
Which is better legally-- to add on your husband's surname to your maiden name without a hyphen-- (Charlene Andrews Watson) or with a hyphen (Charlene Andrews- Watson) ? I will like to maintain my maiden name in some from since I am a medical doctor. Just wondering what are the legal/ financial ramifications of each option. Which is easier / better?? Also can you use either name in different situations if you hyphenate or not??
- Category: Name Change
- Date:
- State: New York
Answer:
Legally, there is no significant difference between using your maiden name with or without a hyphen. The choice depends on personal preference. A hyphenated name will be listed under the first letter of the first name in directories.
As long as you are not trying to defraud creditors, you can continue using your maiden name for business purposes. Name changes can occur due to marriage, divorce, adoption, or personal preference. Generally, you cannot change your name for fraudulent reasons, such as avoiding debts.
Common methods for changing your name include usage (in some states, simply using a name can make it your legal name), a court order (recommended and often required), or a marriage certificate as proof of name change. The court must ensure that the name change is in the public interest. You cannot change your name to escape legal obligations or debts.
It is also acceptable to include your original name in a new name, such as through hyphenation or as a middle name. Again, as long as the name change is not done with fraudulent intent, you can use your maiden name for business purposes.
This content is for informational purposes only and is not legal advice. Legal statutes mentioned reflect the law at the time the content was written and may no longer be current. Always verify the latest version of the law before relying on it.