questions & answers

Question: I have used the last name of my mothers second husband for my whole life. I was unaware that I was not officially adopted or entitled to use the name until recently with the new ID law coming into effect. Can I change my name legally now. If I do so will my wife have change her name. even though we were married several years ago? every thing I own is in the last name of my step dad does that matter if I change it now?

Answer: Anyone can change his or her name in Arizona so long as you are not changing it for an illegal purpose.  You will need to file a petition in Arizona Superior Court for a name change.  It is usually a fairly simple process.  If you want to handle it on your own, you can find the appropriate forms on the court's website.  The self-service center on the website also contains instructions to help you file the papers.  Go to https://www.azcourts.gov/selfservicecenter/Forms/Name-Change.  The forms are in the self-service center under forms and instructions.