Forgot to ask for my maiden name back in the divorce — what now?
CAhopeful_dawn1 month ago
Judgment was entered last month. I never checked the box to restore my former name. Stuck with my married name?
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✓ Verified answer from a licensed attorney — shown first
Not stuck. In CA you can file an Ex Parte Application for Restoration of Former Name (FL-395) after the judgment is entered. It's a one-page request, no hearing, no extra filing fee. Once it's signed by the judge you have a court order you can take to Social Security and DMV. Easier than a separate name-change petition. Not advice for your specific case.
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Please readThis is a community space for sharing personal experience — it is not legal advice, and posts here are not from Lawma or your attorney. We strongly encourage you to post under an anonymous handle, keep questions general, and avoid posting private details of your active case. For advice about your own situation, message your attorney.