what kind of lawyer do i need to change my name

Do you need a lawyer to change your name?

The very first step in the process of changing your name starts by going to your local county clerks office. There you will find out if you need a lawyer for the process but typically your county clerks office will give you information pertaining to self-help so you can do the name change on your own without hiring a lawyer.

How to legally change your name without a lawyer?

You must include the following information in the Petition for Change of Name:

• Your current name
• Your county of residence
• A description including height, weight, hair and eye color, race, sex, and place and date of birth
• Place of residence (s) for the past five years
• Reason for request
• A legal description of all real estate in Iowa owned or in which you have any legal interest
• The new name you are requesting to take

How do you change a legal name?

“The next step is to file the notice and other documents needed for the name change with appropriate department; in some states this is a Clerk of Court, in other states, it requires an actual court file to be opened and a Judge to sign the name change order.”

What kind of lawyer handles name changes?

Consulting with a lawyer regarding any significant legal matter such as a name change is always advisable. Because of the complexity of some name change documents, it may be advantageous to consult an attorney to explain the full effects of the name change. A lawyer can also help you through the legal process of changing a name.

How difficult is it to change your name?

The process of changing your name is not difficult however it requires a tedious effort to do so. There are many steps, which can be slow at times, that are required to successfully change your name. It's easy to change your name in social settings, all you have to do is introduce yourself with your desired name.

How much is it to change your name?

Name changes cost anywhere from under $100 to more than $500, depending on your state. In many states, fees vary in each county, so check with your local probate, family, or district court clerk. Many states still have fees well under $100.

How long does it take to change your name?

Changing your name cannot be done overnight, it requires systematic planning and involves a host of complicated pre and post-gazette publication compliance. While it might take approximately 4-8 weeks to get your name changed published in the gazette.

What are the documents required for changing the name?

Documents Required For Name Change An affidavit duly signed by the applicant and attested by Judicial Magistrate/Notary. Original newspaper in which name change ad is given. Prescribed proforma (must be computer typed and not handwritten) with signatures of applicant and two witnesses.

What is a good reason to change your name?

Change your name to honor your heritage, ethnicity or for religious reasons; and. Change your name to honor a step-parent or other person that has been special in your life; and, Create a new last name for both you and your spouse by hyphenating your surnames.

How does changing your name affect you?

You probably expect to need to update your Social Security information and your credit cards, but there are plenty of other people who need to know about your new name as well. "A name change can have an impact on your taxes. All the names on your tax return must match Social Security Administration records.

What state is the easiest to change your name?

Easiest States To Change Your Name Because of Full Service, by EZ Name Change, California's process is considered one of the easiest and surest ways to get a name legally changed.

Can I legally change my last name?

Changing a surname. As with your first name, there is nothing in the law stopping you from changing your surname at any time, so long as you don't have any fraudulent (or other criminal) intent. You can assume any surname you please in addition to, or substitution for, your existing surname.

How long does it take Social Security to change your name?

Expect to wait a minimum of two and a half weeks from the date the SSA receives your application.

How much does it cost to change name on birth certificate?

We will ask you to pay a fee of £40.00. This fee is set by central government and is for consideration of the application. It does not guarantee the application will be successful.

How do I change my name on all certificates?

The procedure to change the name in a school or college leaving certificate is more or less similar to the procedure of legally changing your name....The process involves 5 major steps:Affidavit Submission.Ad in Newspaper.Gazette Notification.Verification.Approval.

What is name change affidavit?

An affidavit to change one's name is a document which helps one prove their identity once they change their name or if a woman changes her surname after her marriage. It becomes important to have a procedure to legalise changes in their names in order for their new name to gain recognition.

Can I change my legal name?

You will need a court order, which you can obtain from the Regional Trial Court (RTC) of your municipality/city. You need to file a petition detailing why you want to change your surname, as well as other required documents including those mentioned above for first name changes.

How do I change my name?

Steps to Legally Change Your NamePetition to change your name by filling out a name change form, an order to show cause for legally changing your name, and a decree to legally change your name.Take these forms to the court clerk and file them along with your state's required filing fees.More items...•

How much does it cost to change your name in Canada?

There is a $120 government fee for a legal change of name. This fee is for all the name changes included on one application form. Registry agents will also charge a service fee. Service fees vary among registry agents.

How much does it cost to change name on birth certificate?

We will ask you to pay a fee of £40.00. This fee is set by central government and is for consideration of the application. It does not guarantee the application will be successful.

2 attorney answers

This is a fairly straightforward action depending on the circumstances. Any solo or general practitioner (lawyer) should be able to assist in drafting the appropriate legal documents.

John Roache Cook IV

If this is connected to a divorce, then it can be done during the proceedings. Otherwise it's an application through the La. Vital Records and you have to file a motion with the court in your jurisdiction. I would suggest a family law lawyer or a general practioner.

What is the legal name change?

Generally, (d) when a minor is involved, the court looks to the best interest of the minor.

What records do I need to change after I change my name?

After you have changed your name you may need to change records including: (a) Social Security Card, (b) Drivers License, (c) Passport, (d) Post Office, (e) IRS, (f) Voter Registration, (g) Banks, (h) Credit Cards, (i) Doctors (j) Insurance Companies, (k) State Tax Authority, (l) Clubs, (m) Memberships, (n) Employer and (o) Retirement plans. You will also need to consider changing your (a) Will, (b) Health Care Proxy, (c) Living Will, (d) Trust, (e) Power of Attorney and (f) Contracts.

How to change your name in court?

Wait for your court date to arrive if you will appear in person. Most states require a brief court appearance where the judge will confirm you are requesting the name change and your request is not for any fraudulent reason. Following the hearing, the judge will sign your order. Before leaving the courthouse, purchase three additional legal copies of the order.

Where to update driver's license?

Take the order to your local Drivers License office and Social Security office to update your legal information. Additionally, send copies of the order to your creditors and other business contacts to update your new name in their records.

Can you change your name if you have been convicted of a felony?

Some states will not allow a name change if you have been convicted of a felony. Some states require a fingerprint criminal history record. You must read and follow the steps outlined by your states law.

Do you have to appear before a judge?

Some states do not require an appearance before the judge and will mail you the signed order. In some states, they will allow you to have a brief court appearance the same day your turn in your forms if the schedule allows. Some states do not require an appearance before the judge and will mail you the signed order.

Can I change my last name in Cincinnati?

How to Change Last Name at Cincinnati Clerk of Courts. A legal name change does not require an attorney and can be completed by yourself. You must follow some guidelines, such as, you cannot change your name to a famous person, you cannot change your name to avoid legal issues and you cannot change your name to one that is demeaning ...

How to change your name without a lawyer?

There you will find out if you need a lawyer for the process but typically your county clerks office will give you information pertaining to self-help so you can do the name change on your own without hiring a lawyer. Each state has their own procedure so it’s important to go to your local county clerks office to gather this information.

How much does it cost to change your name?

As it varies by state, changing you name typically costs under a few hundred dollars. It’s after you change your name that the fees add up with things like a new drivers license, social security card and passport. All of which will cost money to replace. Again, states charge different fees to replace IDs and documents.

What document is used to change your name?

Original Name Change Document – Such as a Marriage License, Divorce Decree, or Certificate signed by the Judge.

What is the most important document to change your name on?

If the judge approves your application, a decree will be signed which is the most important document because it allows you to change your name on all the most sensitive documents including your passport, driver’s license, birth certificate and social security card.

Why do you need to make copies of petitions?

Knowledge Tip: The reason for making copies is because you will need to provide a copy of the petition for a change of name form when publishing your new name in the newspaper. Look at Step 4 for more information.

Why do people change their last name?

People change their name for a variety of reasons. By far the most common reason people change their name (last name) is due to marriage or divorce. Other reasons include: Entertainment Stage Name. Gender Change. State Witness Program. Troubled History. Dislike of Birth Name. Restoring a Former Name.

How long does it take to change your name?

At a minimum, it will take about 6 weeks from start to finish. Depending on the state, the process to change your name could take anywhere from 6 months to 12 months. For example, in Florida it’s required that you must have your fingerprints submitted to the Department of Law Enforcement for a criminal records check and you cannot request a petition to change your name until the court receives the results. It’s these types of requirements that can slow down the process to change your name.

3 attorney answers

I agree with the other two responses. A Petition for Name Change and an Order for Name Change need to be filed. Depending on what county you file it in a court appearance may not be necessary.

Michael Kerr Walker

I agree with the advice given by Mr. Standbrook. As a general rule name changes are a pretty straightforward matter so long as it is not being done for some fraudulent purpose.

Lloyd A. Pont

Although a lawyer can ensure you negotiate your way through an often complicated legal process, a request to change one's name should not be too difficult. Both the probate and chancery courts in Davidson County handle name changes.

How to change your name in court?

The first step is filing a petition in the proper court, along with any other required forms and paying the filing fee. In most states, the petitioner (the individual making the request) must publish notice of the petition in a local newspaper.

Can you change your name in an effort to defraud someone?

Legal grounds: A person cannot change their name in an effort to defraud any other person.

Can a minor's name be changed?

Complications may arise if the noncustodial parent cannot be located, is incarcerated, or lives out of town. In a minor name change, consideration is given to whether the name change is in the best interests of the minor, and issues such as custody and parental notice are carefully examined.

Why do people change their legal name?

People change their legal name for many reasons. For the most part name changes happen due to marriage, divorce, gender change or court order.

How to change your name after divorce?

The first step of a divorce name change is to go through divorce proceedings in your state. After the state says your divorce is final, you will be able to obtain a divorce decree which serves as your legal name change document.

What to do if divorce decree is wrong?

If there are errors on your divorce decree or if you’d like a different surname, you can file a petition to modify it.

How to get your maiden name back after divorce?

To get your maiden name back after divorce all you need is a divorce decree. And most states allow you to obtain a court-ordered name change if you don’t like your current name. Each state has its own laws and restrictions but the general process of legally changing your name is pretty straightforward. 1. Marriage Name Change.

How to update your name after marriage?

The first place to update your name after your marriage is with the Social Security Administration (SSA). You do this by submitting Form SS-5, your marriage certificate, and proof of your identity and citizenship.

What happens if you get your name granted?

If your new name is granted, your court will issue you a decree with your new name.

What is the purpose of asking for a name?

Creating a new name to commit a crime. Asking for a name which has the intention of being misleading, typically done by taking the name of someone famous. Choosing a confusing name which may include numbers or symbols.

How to change your lawyer?

Here is what you need to know if you want to change your lawyer: 1 If you are not happy with your lawyer for whatever reason, you can terminate his or her services without notice. 2 You do not have to pay your new lawyer another fee. All lawyers who work on your case, if they are entitled to a fee, will share one fee between them. For example, if your case settled for $9,000.00 and there were no expenses and there is a one-third fee all attorneys will come to an understanding (or a court will decide) how much each lawyer will get. 3 You do not have to fire your lawyer. You never have to talk to him or her again. Your new lawyer will send your old lawyer a letter and they will (hopefully) work it out. 4 There should not be any delay with your case when you change lawyers. If both lawyers are civil and handle this properly, your old lawyer should sent the file to the new lawyer.

What to do if you don't like your lawyer?

If you don’t like your lawyer because he does not return your calls or he talks down to you, or you just don’t think he is doing a good job, then it’s over. At the end of the day, you need to find the best lawyer that will work to protect your rights and get you the compensation you deserve.

What happens if you are not happy with your lawyer?

If you are not happy with your lawyer for whatever reason, you can terminate his or her services without notice.

How to change name on deed of house?

Perhaps the easiest way to change a name on a real estate deed is via a quitclaim deed. This is also the least expensive method, and you can download these forms online. While quitclaim deeds aren’t recommended between parties who don’t know each other – since no warranties are included – but they are suitable for divorcing couples who agree that one spouse receives the property; adding another owner to the deed, and legal name changes, whether through marriage or the court.

Why do you have to change your name on a deed?

If you have an interest in a piece of real estate, your ownership is reflected by your name on the deed. There are all sorts of reasons, short of a sale or purchase, requiring a name change on a real estate deed. Life happens, and that means marriage, divorce, death or just the changing of a legal name. It’s important that your real estate deeds reflect your current legal name and having your legal name on the deed makes the process much smoother if you want to put your property on the market or take out another mortgage.

Why is it important to have your name on your deed?

It’s important that your real estate deeds reflect your current legal name and having your legal name on the deed makes the process much smoother if you want to put your property on the market or take out another mortgage.

Where to file a quit claim deed?

Depending on your state, you must file your quitclaim deed with either the county clerk or the recorder in the town in which the property is located . Have the quitclaim deed properly notarized beforehand. Expect to pay a nominal recording fee. Once the quitclaim deed is recorded, anyone performing a title search will find your new name on the deed.

Do you need to record a deed for a spouse?

However, if the deed has both you and your spouse as the property owners, you need only record one deed. Use your FKA name as the grantor and your new name as the grantee. As noted, check with your state to ensure you are followings its regulations.

Do you have to change the deed if your spouse died?

If your spouse has died and the property was owned jointly with right of survivorship, you don’t have to change the deed to reflect that the property is now owned by just one person. If you decide to sell your home or take out a mortgage, it’s just a matter of explaining in the new deed or new mortgage that your spouse has died.

Do you have to update a quit claim deed?

If you are transferring the property to yourself under your new name, all you have to do is update the deed from your former name to your current one. You’ll find the legal description of the property on your current deed. While all quitclaim deeds require notarization, in some states a witness to the transfer is required.

Step 1 – Clerk of Court

See more on eforms.com

Step 2 – File A Petition For A Change of Name

Step 3 – Set A Court Date

Step 4 – Publishing Your New Name

Step 5 – Sign Decree at Court Hearing

Step 1 – Apply For A Marriage License

Step 2 – Setup A Marriage Ceremony

Step 3 – Request Certified Copy