Another Name change question, sorry!

trulymarvelous

Some of you may have read already that my FI is from New Zealand.
We are still working out details of what country we'll end up in after we get married in the states. 

My question is, would it be totally inappropriate and weird to legally change my name before we get married?

Might seem weird, but if I have a name change while I'm abroad it could cause problems with my current visa and I'm not sure if I could even get it legally changed in time before I potentially leave for NZ.

Anyone have experience with this specifically?
Also, about how long does it take for all the paperwork to go through?

Northrend

In order to change your name without a marriage certificate, you have to get a court order which is a much bigger pain than just doing it after you get married.

trulymarvelous

Northrend said:

In order to change your name without a marriage certificate, you have to get a court order which is a much bigger pain than just doing it after you get married.

Gaaah.

Bubble bursted

trulymarvelous

Feels like quite the silly question now =\

vanityink

Not a silly question. My friend was talking about doing the same thing so she could update her passport before heading on her honeymoon before I pointed out the only “easy” way to do it is to have a marriage certificate/divorce certificate. You can mail in your social security card and passport and all that easily if you send in that. Otherwise you have a TON of hoops to jump through

melbenso

While it's unusual, I don't think there is anything wrong with it. A friend of mine legally changed her name before she got married. Her wedding was three weeks after she graduated from medical school and she wanted her diploma and certifications to list the name she would have for the rest of her life rather than the one she would have for a couple more weeks.

And she avoided an excuse for a PPD by doing it.

mysticl

Northrend said:

In order to change your name without a marriage certificate, you have to get a court order which is a much bigger pain than just doing it after you get married.

You also have to justify why you are doing it.  The judge doesn't have to grant the request.  For example he could say there is always the chance you won't get married and that you'll end up in front of him wanting your old name back.  

And you have to pay court costs.  

melbenso

Regarding changing your name via court order, it's not that hard or expensive (at least in Ohio where I practice). And you do have to give a reason, but as long as the reason isn't fraudulent (e.g. Trying to hide a criminal past) it should be approved by the court. Most people do it on their own with forms they get from the probate court.

I suggest calling the local clerk of probate court to ask them what forms you need to file. They are likely standardized.