Name Change

questions & answers

Question: My soon to be wife and I would like to create a new last name when we get married, how do I fill out the marriage license form to reflect that?

Answer: In Maricopa County you and your future spouse will need to go together the clerk’s office to obtain your marriage license. The clerk requires a signed affidavit of your current legal names. The clerk’s office issues marriage licenses the same day a person requests one. Once you have married you need to sign your name as it appears on the certificate. Unfortunately, this process will not allow for you and your future spouse to create a new last name. However, the Maricopa County Superior Court does provide forms where families want to change their names. Here is a link available and provides further information. http://www.superiorcourt.maricopa.gov/SuperiorCourt/Self-ServiceCenter/Forms/CivilCases/civil_cvncf1.asp However, on the self-service center website, it states not to use these forms for a name change due to marriage. This is for a person who is going to assume their spouse’s name because of marriage. Your situation is unique because you want to create a new last name, rather than one assuming the name of their spouse. To obtain clarity for your particular situation you may wish to visit the clerk’s office when obtaining your marriage license.