reverting to maiden name but staying legally married.....

[changednameforamoment]

....I am about to revert back to my maiden name by deed poll, as a result of husband's recent affair and general unsupportive behaviour.

However, I am (possibly) not going to start divorce just yet, in order to give DS1 some stability for a year re schooling. It also looks like husband is wanting to be around for the children and financially it makes sense for him to live in the spare room - we are separated as far as I'm concerned.

While living like this, I'm happy to keep marriage certificate re next of kin bit. Also because DS1 has been extremely upset by recent events and I think it would benefit him to see us co-existing, and if there's a chance of more attention for him from his dad, I think he needs it right now!

But is there any way in which reverting to my maiden name could weaken my position in any situation? I'm thinking of one of our deaths, or in the case of the eventual divorce. Is there anything I've not thought of?

I wouldn't have thought that's a problem, legally. I still use my maiden name for most things, never changed passports etc, and only have one bank account in married name. You can ask your bank to have it on file that both your maiden and married names are acceptable on the account, too. The marriage certificate protects you, not your name, you could call yourself Suzy Binkleflip, but you would still be married and have those rights.

Sorry to hear about your difficult situation - hope things get easier for you and your dcs soon.