Addressing Naming Conventions for Married People

Which name needs to be used and does it need to be changed?

When a person assumes the family name of their spouse, that name replaces the person's previous surname, making it their maiden name to their married name. From here comes the dreaded name changes on all bills, banks and important legal documents. Not all items can be changed over at once, which leads us to the following enquiry on our Protector and Deed Documents, which name needs to be used or changed?

In this instance we have the last name of the wife of Brad Smith. In her license and in the Protector Document, she is using Sarah Jones her maiden name. But on her Deed and  passport, it is Sarah Smith.

Conclusion: In situations like this, as long as both names are identifiable, it is completely fine to have both on separate documents.

Please be advised this is general information only, and is not to be taken as legal advice. If you would like more information, or have a legal query, please contact Abbott & Mourly directly.
Reviewed: 17/01/2024