Introduction

The purpose of your name is to distinguish you from another. You may be known by a variety of names, such as a nickname or your middle name, all of which are valid under the law. You may even decide to legally change your name, and as long as your new name properly identifies you, it will be valid. This chapter addresses commonly encountered issues surrounding the use of a person's name, such as how to change one's name, what to do if your name is forged, or how your name is affected by a divorce.