By Jennifer Kiesewetter JD.

Can you legally have two first names. Use your new name on the marriage certificate. Filling out forms and applications under your new name. There is no law however that says a person with a hyphenated-name must always use both names and there is no law that says one name dominates over.

However theres a subtle difference between Christian name and baptismal name. That maintains the continuity you seek while allowing you to take your husbands last name as a legal last name. The most important thing to do to legally change your name is to start using your new name.

If not the Acceptance Agent will work with you to decide what the best form is to use in your passport. Children receive the surname of their married parents or the surname of their father if the surnames of their parents differ one from another. They will face problem in passport and visa.

To change your identification documents you will have to present your marriage certificate. If you want to legally change the spelling of your name you must follow the process established in your state. Meaning of Christian name Your Christian name is normally the name you were baptised in.

Exceptions to this latter rule include cases where an individual has been a victim of domestic violence. Telling your family and friends to only refer to you by your new name. While you can name yourself some pretty unique things there are a few concrete rules about name changes by which you must abide.

Heres what they told us. It is best to be consistent in the use of your name so as to minimize or eliminate any risk of confusion later on. Hyphenating their last name.