Name Change
Understanding
Name Changes
An adult may legally change his or her name in Virginia. This can be done as part of a divorce or in a separate filing.
When part of a divorce, you simply need to request the name change in the divorce complaint and be sure to include the provision in the final decree of divorce.
As a separate legal filing, it requires the filing of a petition in which you explain your reason for the name change, a hearing in which you explain your reasons to the judge (to make sure you’re not trying to avoid creditors), and the entry of an order.
Once the judge signs the name change order, you will want to notify Social Security, DMV, your bank, employer, voter registration, and any other institution that you work with often.
Changing your legal name can be an important step in starting a new chapter in your life, but the process can be complex without the right guidance. Whether it's due to marriage, divorce, adoption, or personal reasons, SMITH | ASHCRAFT is here to help make your name change smooth and stress-free.
Our experienced team will assist with filing the necessary paperwork, meeting legal requirements, and addressing any potential complications. Let us handle the details so you can focus on embracing your new identity with confidence.
Contact us today to get started on your legal name change.
Everything You Need to Understand to
Better Navigate Your Divorce
At SMITH | ASHCRAFT we are here to get you through this chapter of your life.
Your future starts NOW!
Grounds for Divorce
In Virginia, grounds for divorce or separation can be categorized into two main types: fault and no-fault grounds.
Learn more about what type of divorce would best represent your situation.
Separation
In Virginia, there is no “legal separation” like other states have. When we talk about separation, we are talking about when one spouse intended to no longer be married. Learn more about the important points you should consider in a seperation.
Property Division
One of the most complicated issues in divorce is the division of property. This includes the division of debt as well. Lawyers and judges call this equitable distribution. This means that property and debts are not necessarily divided equally. Rather, it will be done “equitably.” Learn more about how your property and assets may be divided in a divorce.
Spousal Support
Because divorce creates two households, each with its own set of expenses, there is often a need for one spouse to receive spousal support, sometimes called alimony. The primary reason for a court to award spousal support is to help ensure that both parties continue to live a similar standard of living to the standard they enjoyed during the marriage. Learn more about the factors that contribute to determining spousal support and how this may impact your case.
Military Divorce
First of all, thank you to our military servicemembers and their families for the many sacrifices your service includes.
Military service comes with additional, special considerations in a divorce matter. There are federal statutes and rules that take priority over the normal state laws governing divorce.
Learn more about the special considerations taken when it comes to a military divorce.
Prenuptial and Postnuptial Agreements
Prenuptial and postnuptial agreements directly impact your rights and obligations in the event of a divorce. Learn more about the complexity of these agreements and how they impact your case.
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At SMITH | ASHCRAFT, we are proud to offer comprehensive legal services throughout Virginia. Whether you’re in Richmond, Northern Virginia, the far reaches of Roanoke, or any other part of the state, our experienced team is here to provide experienced representation tailored to your unique needs. No matter where you are in Virginia, we’re committed to delivering the same high level of service and dedication to each client, ensuring your case receives the attention it deserves.

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