How Can An Attorney Help Me Change My Name Legally?

While changing your name may seem straightforward, it’s still better to ask for a name change attorney’s help to ensure you make things official and go through the steps hassle-free.

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Common Reasons Why People Change Their Names

People change their name for one of various reasons, including the following:

• They simply don’t like their birth name. Some people find their name embarrassing if it’s misspelled or mispronounced. It can get tiresome socially to repeatedly correct a person’s interpretation of your name. 
• They wish to change their name after a divorce. Some women wish to reclaim their maiden name after they’ve divorced or change their name completely. 
• Some husbands wish to take their wife’s surname instead of vice versa. The process is quite simple in some states, while in others, you need to go through a more complicated process.
• In some cases, a mother may want to change their child’s surname to hers if the father is no longer in the picture.
• Some couples may create a new surname by using parts of each other’s name by hyphenating the two last names and making a new joint surname. This can be simple or more detailed, depending on the state. Therefore, it helps to get a lawyer’s advice before you begin.
• Some people want their names to be less ethnic so others find them easier to spell and pronounce. Others may want to reclaim their ethnic heritage by changing their surname to one that’s been lost over time.
• Transgender people may request a name change to reflect the gender they identify with – maybe to the feminine or masculine version of their current name or by choosing a whole new name altogether.
• Some people change their name because of a recent religious conversion or for religious reasons.
• Same-sex partners may choose to share a surname so they can conveniently complete financial or legal paperwork.
• Some families who adopt want a name change so everyone’s last name matches.

Also, you may need a lawyer’s advice if you’re a researcher or other academic professional planning to marry. Changing your name can affect your work and how you’re perceived in academic and scientific journals.

Whatever your reason for a name change, a name change attorney will navigate through the process with more confidence and less conflict. Again, you will spend less time changing your name with an attorney’s assistance. They can efficiently present your case, correctly fill out the paperwork, and make sure all the documents are filed properly. They can also keep you on track after a name change, so you can add your new name to your financial accounts and I.D.s.

Name Change FAQs

Do you have questions about legally changing your name? If so, the following FAQs will help answer your questions. That way, you can contact an attorney and take the necessary steps more easily.

How Long Does a Name Change Usually Take?

On average, it takes about 60 to 90 days to legally change a name.

Is a Court Appearance Required?

It depends on the judge or court managing your case. If a court appearance is necessary, a name change lawyer will prepare for the hearing. They will also answer questions from the court on your behalf.

Should I Change My Name in My State of Birth or in the State Where I Currently Live?

When you submit the legal paperwork for a name change, you should do so where you currently live.

Should I Still Legally Change My Name if I Just Want to Change the Spelling of My First Name?

Whether you make a complete name change or just wish to make a minor change to your first name, middle name, or surname, you still have to go through the legal process.

If a Formal Name Change Necessary If I Only Wish to Correct My Name

If you only wish to correct your name on vital records, it’s best to contact the office of Vital Statistics where you live to find out more about correcting your name.

How Do I Change My Name if I’m Planning to Marry or Get a Divorce?

You don’t need to have your name officially changed through the name change process if you’ve recently married or divorced. You can simply sign the marriage certificate, or if you go through a divorce, you can resume using the prior surname after the dissolution.

How Do I Change My Child’s Last Name If I’m Adopting Them?

A  formal legal court-ordered name change is not required if the name change is related to an adoption or paternity action. A child’s name or your name will be changed in connection with the activity.

What Happens if a Person Who Wants a Name Change is Under 18 Years Old?

When a minor requests a name change, both biological parents must consent to the change request. If there’s any objection, the court will decide based on the best interests of the child.

Does a Person Requesting a Name Change Have to Be a U.S. Citizen?

Applicants do not have to be U.S. citizens. Name changes apply to permanent residents and people born in the U.S. However, a permanent resident alien does have to report a name change to the U.S. Department of Homeland Security.

What Happens If the Name Change is Requested Out of Concern for Personal Safety?

When a person changes their name out of concern for their safety, the application for the name change may be sealed or not made available to the public. If there’s a well-founded concern, your attorney can help you with sealing the application.

Contact a Name Change Attorney About the Process Now

Whether you are changing your name to begin a new chapter in your life or you wish to alter a name that is difficult to pronounce, you’ll find it easier to do so with a lawyer’s help.

Contact a name change attorney to streamline and successfully complete the change process. Ensure you get your questions answered and that everything is filled out without difficulty. Schedule an appointment with a name change lawyer today.