Do I take both last names?

Question

okay, let's say my husbands name is Michael Smith-Jones obviously he has his mother and father's last name..now If we get married, do I take both last names ex. Michelle Marie Smith-Jones? or if we have kids do my kids get both last names, or do u just drop his mother's name?

(sorry if this sounds a little confusing, but hopefully you guys get it)

Answer 1

Lady Godiva1,

Hmm...

I think there are a few solutions available to you. But before you choose, I think you and your husband should sit together and discuss this. Is he very attached to his last name? Does he also want to change it? Maybe a solution will come about just cos you shared your confusion with him.

Or here are some solutions -
(find out the legal implications before you finally decide though)

1. Let the name remain as it is. Use it as your last name, as well as your kids.

2. Change it to include yours and your husbands name so that your kids get to do what he got to do - keep both the parents' names.

3. Don't give your kids last names, when they're old enough, ask them what they'd like.

4. Drop the mom's name. Carry on the dad's.

5. Drop the dad's. And carry on the mom's.

6. Don't change your name. Give the kids his name.

Answer 2

My husband had a friend who had two last names. When he married, his wife took both of his also. If he is comfortable with both, and it's important to him, then I think a wife should. But if you discuss it and he doesn't care, then I think it's up to the two of you to decide. It would be strange at parties though to have Mrs. Jones and Mr. Smith-Jones. Could be confusing to people whether you belong together.

Answer 3

Unfortunately because we live in a patriachical society the mother's last name gets dropped.

That way a few generations down there would be no way to trace the maternal side of the family.

Answer 4

Do what you want. Heck, add your last name if you want for all I care. It's just a name. I could care less if my last name was something else. I wouldn't care if I kept my name or adopted my wifes if I were ever to get married.

Answer 5

I've only heard of this once, and the woman took both of her husband's last names, and passed them along to their children. She is an Orthodox Christian author

Answer 6

Pick a name , any name. Yes drop one of them. People do that because they are self centered and seek attention. Don't embarass yourself or youe kids and just be normal.

Answer 7

Keep your own name...it's less headache when the Divorce comes along!!! The kids should have his full last name.

Answer 8

When you get married you take what ever name you want..but its good for both of you to have the same....for legal purposes mostly

Answer 9

if he's legally known as Mr. Smith-Jones you
and your kids need to the get the last name.

Answer 10

Ask him. It is his name you are sharing. He does have a preference.

Clearly, if he is using the hyphenated name for himself, then he would want you and your kids too also.