Legal Question in Intellectual Property in California

i have always gone by a last name that i didn't find out was not my legal last name until i got my drivers license. i still use this name for work and when i meet people and for all intents and purposes this is my last name. when i sell paintings it's under this name, when i do anything it is under this name. it was on my social security, all my medical records, ect. is there any way i can use this name and my legal name in conjunction, without having to legally change it?


Asked on 9/28/10, 1:27 pm

1 Answer from Attorneys
Michael Stone Law Offices of Michael B. Stone Toll Free 1-855-USE-MIKE

Go to the county recorder or county clerk's office and file a Fictitious Business Name certificate under the name you use for work. There are friendly newspaper advertising salespeople outside the building who will tell you how to file (it involves publishing a notice in the back page of some obscure legal newspaper). Then use either name. Problem solved.

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Answered on 10/03/10, 1:33 pm


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