The traditional practice of one partner (historically the wife) completely dropping their surname to adopt their spouse's is no longer the default rule. In modern Britain, identity is paramount, and many couples are looking for ways to honour both families equally. Enter the double-barrelled surname.
Double-barrelling involves joining two surnames together, usually—but not always—connected by a hyphen (e.g., Smith-Jones). It is a fantastic way to blend histories, but it isn't a decision to be taken lightly. Before you commit to a longer signature, let’s explore the legality, the benefits, and the potential administrative headaches of double-barrelling.
The Legal Side: How to Double-Barrel
First, the technical part. How do you actually make it happen?
If You Are Just Married
If you have just tied the knot, you might be able to use your Marriage Certificate to update your records. Government bodies like the Passport Office generally accept a Marriage Certificate as evidence if you are simply joining your two surnames with a hyphen.
However, banks and private institutions can be stricter. Some may argue that a double-barrelled name is a "new" name and insist on a Deed Poll. To avoid being turned away at the bank counter, we recommend obtaining a Deed Poll to ensure the change is accepted universally without dispute.
If You Are Not Married / Already Married
If you are cohabiting, or if you got married years ago and now decide to change your name, you must use a Deed Poll. Your Marriage Certificate is only valid for name changes made shortly after the wedding ceremony.
The Benefits of Double-Barrelling
1. Equality and Partnership
Double-barrelling is often seen as the most egalitarian option. It symbolises the union of two equals, rather than one person being absorbed into the other's family tree. Neither partner has to "lose" their identity.
2. Preserving Family Lineage
For those with rare surnames or who are the last of their line, double-barrelling is a way to ensure a family name survives for another generation. It allows you to pass both heritages down to your children.
3. Professional Identity
If you have built a career, a reputation, or academic publications under your birth name, dropping it can feel like erasing your CV. Double-barrelling allows you to keep that professional recognition while still sharing a name with your spouse.
The Cons and Considerations
1. The Length and Admin
The most practical downside is the length. "Alexandra Cholmondeley-Featherstonehaugh" might sound distinguished, but it is a nightmare to fit on forms. You may find that credit cards cut off half your name, and airline booking systems struggle with the character limit.
2. The "Next Generation" Problem
The most common question we hear is: "What happens when two double-barrelled people have children?" If Mr. Smith-Jones marries Ms. Taylor-Brown, do the kids become Smith-Jones-Taylor-Brown? Usually, no. The line has to be drawn somewhere, often forcing a difficult decision down the road regarding which names to keep or drop.
3. Hyphen or No Hyphen?
This is a stylistic choice, but an important one.
- With Hyphen (Smith-Jones): Clearly shows the two names are linked as one surname. It prevents people from mistaking the first part of your surname for a middle name.
- Without Hyphen (Smith Jones): Looks cleaner but often causes confusion. Admin staff may accidentally file "Smith" as a middle name and "Jones" as the only surname.
Can I Change the Order?
Yes. You can choose Smith-Jones or Jones-Smith. Many couples choose based on which combination flows better phonetically. Legally, it does not matter which comes first, but once you decide, that specific order becomes your legal name.
Conclusion
Double-barrelling is a wonderful compromise between tradition and modernity. It respects both families and creates a new, shared identity. However, be prepared for a slightly longer signature and the occasional form-filling frustration.
If you have decided that double-barrelling is right for you, ensuring your paperwork is watertight is the next step. Whether you need to satisfy a fussy bank or you are changing your name years after your wedding, a Deed Poll is the most reliable tool for the job.
Ready to combine your names? Contact us today to apply for your Deed Poll and make your new double-barrelled name official.
