Pennsylvania § 704.1 - Surviving spouse may resume prior name.

Full text of Pennsylvania Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes § 704.1 — Surviving spouse may resume prior name., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.

§ 704.1. Surviving spouse may resume prior name.

A surviving spouse may, at any time, resume any prior surname used by him or her by filing a written notice to such effect in the office of the prothonotary of the county where the surviving spouse resides, accompanied by a certificate of death for the decedent. In counties where there is no prothonotary, the notice shall be filed in the office that performs the functions of the office of prothonotary as provided for in the act of August 9, 1955 (P.L.323, No.130), known as The County Code.

(Nov. 19, 2004, P.L.842, No.105, eff. 60 days; July 5, 2005, P.L.54, No.18, eff. 60 days)

References in Text. The act of August 9, 1955, P.L.323, No.130, known as The County Code, referred to in this section, was repealed by the act of May 8, 2024, P.L.50, No.14. The subject matter is now contained in Title 16 (Counties).

Source: official Pennsylvania text · Last verified 2026-08-27

Frequently Asked Questions About Pennsylvania § 704.1

What does Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes § 704.1 cover?

Section 704.1 ("Surviving spouse may resume prior name.") is part of the Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes, the codified statutory law of Pennsylvania. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.

How do I cite Pennsylvania § 704.1?

A common citation format is "Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes § 704.1" (Pennsylvania). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.

Is this the official text of Pennsylvania law?

No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Pennsylvania official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Pennsylvania attorney.

How does Pennsylvania § 704.1 apply to my situation?

Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Pennsylvania can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.

Sources & Verification

Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in Pennsylvania.