Q: Does a name discrepancy affect my divorce decree's validity?
I recently discovered a minor discrepancy in my divorce documents. My last name is printed with an apostrophe on the divorce decree, while it does not appear on the marriage certificate. I noticed this a few days ago but haven't encountered any issues because of it over the years. I haven't consulted anyone regarding this matter yet and I'm primarily concerned about the validity of the divorce decree. Is this discrepancy something I need to address to ensure the decree remains valid?
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- Nevada
- (702) 979-1455
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- Answered
A:
A minor discrepancy, such as an apostrophe appearing differently in your name between the divorce decree and the marriage certificate, typically would not invalidate your divorce decree, especially if you've had no practical issues related to it over the years. Courts generally recognize that minor typographical errors or formatting differences are common and usually do not affect the legal validity of a divorce.
However, because the specifics can vary depending on jurisdiction, and to ensure absolute certainty and peace of mind, it would be advisable to consult a qualified attorney in your area. An attorney can review your documents in detail, advise you on any potential corrective measures if necessary, and confirm that your divorce decree remains fully valid.
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