Should I use a lawyer for a name change?: I'm an adult male who would like to legally change my last name so that I can have the same surname as my biological father. With that said, I have a few questions: 1.)Would you recommend having a lawyer go through all the legalites for me or is it simple enough to do on my own? 2.) Who do I contact to get the petition to change my name? 3.) Do I have to change my name on my birth certificate? 4.) On average, how long does the process take?
Jacqueline's answer: The decision about whether to use a lawyer to help with your name change depends on how comfortable you are with going through the process on your own. The name change process is not very complicated, however many people feel more secure using an attorney to make sure everything is done correctly. If you want to pursue it on your own, you can always hire an attorney to draft the petition and order or there are website that have templates you can use. You do not have to change your name on your birth certificate. The process, depending on your jurisdiction, can be done in a few weeks.
Can i get child support if i am leagally married: have child support order and married
Jacqueline's answer: Yes as long as you and your spouse are separated. You can get child support through filing for a divorce or you can file a Suit Affecting Parent-Child Relationship. If you want a divorce, it is best to seek child support in the divorce as opposed to a separate case so that all issues can be addressed in one case which will save you time and money. The court can award you temporary child support while the case is pending so that you do not have to wait until a final order to obtain support. The court also has the discretion to award support back to the date of separation.
How can I find out if my spouse has filed for a divorce?: I think my wife has filed for a divorce. Is there a phone number or office in the County/State government that I can call to find out for sure?
Jacqueline's answer: Many courts post court records online. If the divorce would take place in Denton County, you can look up court records at www.justice.dentoncounty.com under Family case records. Dallas County and Collin County also post court records online. If the county where you believe your wife has filed for divorce does not have an online record search, you can contact the district clerk for that county and they can tell you if a case has been filed.