Divorce questions

[cmc774]

Hi, occasional lurker with a few questions. Received my divorce papers today finally after 2 years. Pretty amicable divorce, he has a lawyer, I don't. We agreed on a monetary settlement since I left the home. We don't speak, only through text and not very often. Will I receive that payment the day of court? Also, do I need to state somewhere that I want to take my maiden name back or can I do that once I receive my official divorce papers? I'd rather not have to reply to my summons paperwork that I have 35 days if I wish to dispute or whatever. TIA!

[dragon's breath]

Not sure about the first, but I'd state you want to change your name so the judge can do it at the same time (that way it won't cost extra to do it later). You can change your name any time though, it will just cost you.

[bg]

What state are you in?

[verycontrary247]

My lawyer filed the appeal to change my name back at the same time as my divorce papers.

[cmc774]

I'm in NJ

[cuddlyevil]

You really should have an attorney. I had the clause to change my name put in the filing. You will need to have someone file the appeal with the court.

[katieido]

I had to have it spelled out in my decree. Which I learned the hard way because this was accidentally omitted from my j &d and I had to get it amended.

You should definitely get an attorney to advocate on your behalf.

[Deleted]

2 things:

1. you need to include the maiden name verbiage in the decree so it doesn't require a whole separate filing.

2. be sure to specifically say in the decree the settlement is NOT alimony - alimony is taxable.