Change your last name? Discover your options

Questioner

I have my father's surname, but would like to use my mother's. I think I do not meet any of the conditions of Justis. I mainly want to change my surname for personal reasons (no good contact with my father). That is why I wonder if I am allowed to call myself (at school, work, etc.) differently than it is on my passport. I am over 18 years old.

Lawyer

I understand that you are of legal age. You can then indeed have your surname changed to the surname of the other parent at Justis. The condition is that your mother cared for and raised you for some time when you were a minor. It is also important whether your parents were already divorced when you were still a minor. If this is not the case, you cannot change your name on this basis. It might be a good idea to check again whether you are eligible for an official name change. Please note that there are costs involved. As long as your surname is not officially changed, your school and your employer are required to use your official name towards official bodies. How your name is used within your school or at work can of course always be discussed with the director/your employer.