Tex. Fam. Code § 6.706

**Tex. Fam. Code § 6.706. CHANGE OF NAME.** (a) In a decree of divorce or annulment, the court shall change the name of a party specifically requesting the change to a name previously used by the party unless the court states in the decree a reason for denying the change of name. (b) The court may not deny a change of name solely to keep the last name of family members the same. (c) A change of name does not release a person from liability incurred by the person under a previous name or defeat a right the person held under a previous name. (d) A person whose name is changed under this section may apply for a change of name certificate from the clerk of the court as provided by Section 45.106. Added by Acts 1997, 75th Leg., ch. 7, Sec. 1, eff. April 17, 1997.