Chapter 7. Restoration Of Wife’s Former Name of California Family Law Code >> Division 6. >> Part 1. >> Chapter 7.

In a proceeding for dissolution of marriage or for nullity of marriage, but not in a proceeding for legal separation of the parties, the court, upon the request of a party, shall restore the birth name or former name of that party, regardless of whether or not a request for restoration of the name was included in the petition.

The restoration of a former name or birth name requested under Section 2080 shall not be denied (a) on the basis that the party has custody of a minor child who bears a different name or (b) for any other reason other than fraud.

Nothing in this code shall be construed to abrogate the common law right of any person to change one's name.