What step to take in dropping my married name without court

Did the divorce decree state that y our name is changed? If so, use the decree to change your name with all the government agencies (social security administration, DPS, etc.) If your divorce decree did not change your name, you may change your name by common law simply by using your maiden name on documents. However, you must change your name through a court. If you do not change your name through the courts, you will always have to put your legal name on your most formal documents or use a/k/a "married name" if you do sign your maiden name.