I find myself in a professional dilemma after my recent marriage. Even though I legally adopted my husband’s last name, I am hesitant to use it in my professional life.

Q. I recently got married and although I legally changed my name to my husband’s, I really don’t want to change it professionally because I have made such a name for myself professionally. Also, my boss said he would prefer if I didn’t change my name because they hired me in part because I’m an expert in my field. Any advice?

A. Congratulations on your recent nuptials. I understand that you don’t want to change your name professionally, as you are now known by your “maiden name” as an expert in your field. This is a common dilemma for professional women, especially those who marry later, who want to maintain their professional identity and the reputation they have built using their original name (even if that name may come from a previous marriage). It’s interesting that you commented on your boss’s preference without commenting on your spouse’s. Is your husband very keen that you use his last name in the work environment or is the legal change enough?

If your husband doesn’t care and you don’t, there should be no problem. Whatever your name, you remain an expert on the subject. It may take you longer to introduce your new name to everyone if you decide to change it. You can adopt a combination of all three names, including your first name, your premarital last name, and your new married last name, which many people choose to do. A lot of people do this forever. And some people do this for several years and then drop their maiden name.

Since about 50% of marriages end in divorce, you might consider using all three names (first name, maiden name, and married last name) for legal documents and in your local community. However, for professional purposes, you may continue to use your established professional name. This approach provides flexibility and preserves your professional identity while recognizing your marital status in personal contexts. The people you are closest to know what your name is and what your expertise is.

There is no universal solution to this situation; the options are as varied as individual preferences. This decision should ultimately be made by you and your husband alone. You don’t want to do anything that will hurt your career or make it harder for people to find you. It is essential to consider your professional involvements and ensure that your professional contacts can still find and identify you easily. But if it’s something that means a lot to your husband, you may decide that using all three names might be a good compromise and let people know that you recently got married, which I’m all for sure, they would like to congratulate you. If you decide to have children, the name situation can become even more complicated.

Your decision should be based on individual circumstances, preferences and the implications it might have on your career. Whatever you decide, it is essential to ensure that your legal documentation is consistent across all important documents and institutions.