Las Vegas Name Change Lawyer

Restoring a Former Name in Your Divorce

Nevada allows a spouse to request restoration of a former or maiden name directly within the divorce decree. This is typically faster and simpler than filing a separate petition after the divorce is finalized, since the name change becomes part of the same court order that finalizes the divorce itself.

Changing Your Name Outside of Divorce

An adult who wants to legally change their name for any reason can petition the district court to do so. The general process involves filing a petition with the court, in many cases publishing notice of the proposed change in a local newspaper, and attending a brief hearing before the court issues the final order.

The Publication Requirement

Nevada generally requires that a proposed adult name change be published in a newspaper of general circulation before the court will grant the petition, giving the public notice and an opportunity to raise objections. Certain circumstances may allow this requirement to be waived, and Cohen Fic & Squires can advise on whether your case may qualify.

Changing a Child’s Name

Changing a minor’s name is more sensitive, since it directly affects a child who cannot consent for themselves. When both parents agree, the process is relatively straightforward. When one parent does not consent, the requesting parent must show the court that the change serves the child’s best interest, and the non-consenting parent must be given proper notice and an opportunity to be heard.

Updating Your Records After Approval

Once a court grants a name change, the work isn’t quite finished — the new name needs to be updated with the Social Security Administration, the DMV, passport services, banks, and other institutions. Cohen Fic & Squires can provide guidance on the practical steps to take once your order is in hand.

Why Choose Cohen Fic & Squires for Your Name Change

• Efficient handling of name restoration as part of an active divorce case
• Clear guidance through the publication and hearing requirements for standalone petitions
• Skilled advocacy in contested minor name change cases
• Straightforward, responsive service to keep your petition moving
• Representation for clients throughout Las Vegas, Henderson, and Clark County

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I restore my maiden name as part of my divorce in Nevada?

Yes. Nevada allows a spouse to request restoration of a former name directly in the divorce decree, which is typically faster and simpler than filing a separate name change petition after the divorce is finalized.

How do I legally change my name outside of a divorce?

An adult can petition the district court for a legal name change, which generally involves filing a petition, in some cases publishing notice of the request, and appearing at a brief hearing before the court grants the order.

Can I change my child’s name?

Changing a minor’s name typically requires either the consent of both parents or, if one parent does not consent, a court determination that the change is in the child’s best interest, along with proper notice to the non-consenting parent.

Do I need to publish a notice to change my name in Nevada?

In many cases, Nevada requires publication of the proposed name change in a local newspaper before the court will grant the petition, though certain circumstances may qualify for an exception to this requirement.

How long does a name change take in Nevada?

A straightforward adult name change petition can often be completed in a matter of weeks, though the timeline can extend if publication is required or if the case is contested, such as in a disputed minor name change.

What do I need to update after my name change is granted?

Once the court grants a name change order, it’s typically necessary to update your Social Security card, driver’s license, passport, bank accounts, and other official records to reflect your new legal name.

Can a name change be denied by the court?

Yes. A court can deny a name change request if it appears to be sought for a fraudulent or improper purpose, or in a contested minor case, if the change is not shown to be in the child’s best interest.