what type of lawyer would i need to get my name change

by Dejuan Brakus 5 min read

An experienced family law attorney can review the local laws and procedures relating to name changes, and can ensure that you notify all of the proper government agencies. They also can look over any of your petition documents before you file them with the court.Jun 5, 2020

Do you need a lawyer to change your name?

Therefore, if you have any questions, concerns, or simply need help changing your child’s name, then you should consider contacting a local lawyer for assistance; specifically, the type of lawyer who handles name changes: a family lawyer. Although it is not entirely necessary, it can be helpful if your lawyer specializes in name change matters.

How to legally change your name without a lawyer?

Mar 26, 2011 · Any solo or general practitioner (lawyer) should be able to assist in drafting the appropriate legal documents. Start with someone you know and get a suggestion on a good lawyer in the area and then head to your meeting with them prepared with all needed information and documents to save time and money. 1 found this answer helpful | 0 lawyers agree

How do you change a legal name?

Jul 03, 2020 · Our Claremont Family Lawyers are Here to Help with Your Name Change For help changing your name in Los Angeles, contact the Claremont offices of Blasser Law at 877-927-2181 for a no-cost, confidential consultation regarding your needs.

What kind of lawyer handles name changes?

A divorce attorney is experienced in the entire name change process from filing of the name change application (Petition for Change of Name) to fingerprint and appearance before the court. While you could seek to complete this process without an attorney, you may fail to provide the right information or make a proper case to the court.

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How much does it cost to change your name?

What Fees Are Involved To Change a 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.Mar 17, 2022

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.Dec 31, 2021

What is the process to change your name?

How to Change Your Name in 10 StepsGet Your Marriage License and Certified Copies. ... Update Your Social Security Card. ... Get a New Driver's License. ... Get a New Passport and Travel Documents. ... Change the Name on Your Bank Accounts. ... Change the Name on Your Credit Cards. ... Provide Your New Name and Banking Information to Your Employer.More items...•Dec 17, 2020

How long does it take to legally change your name?

How long does it take to legally change my name? Name change actions can take anywhere from a day, to six (6) months (sometimes even longer). The time it takes for name change actions to be ordered/decreed varies not only from state to state but from county to county and courthouse to courthouse as well.

What are the consequences of changing your name?

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.Aug 8, 2018

How much does it cost to change a name on a passport?

Apply online It costs ÂŁ75.50.

Do I need a solicitor to change my name by deed poll?

A: You do not need a solicitor to witness you sign your Deed Poll. Your witness can be anyone so long as they are at least 18 years of age; know you and are independent of you i.e. not a relative or partner or someone living at the same address.Apr 23, 2021

How do I change my surname back to my maiden name?

The good news is that if you are simply reverting to your maiden name after a divorce, then many institutions will accept a copy of your birth certificate, marriage certificate, decree absolute and a signed declaration that you are reverting your maiden name for all purposes.Mar 1, 2020

What does the court consider when changing a child's name?

Basically, the court will examine a number of factors and determine whether the decision to change their name would be in the best interest of the child. For example, if a parent gets remarried and they want the child to take the step-parent’s last name, the court will consider the impact this may have on the child’s well-being.

What happens if you change your name?

Avoiding the legal name change process can result in criminal charges, such as fraud, identity theft, and tax evasion.

How old do you have to be to change your name?

An individual must be at least 18 years old to legally change their name. Additionally, if only one parent is involved in the decision to change the child’s name, they must notify the other parent. This is true regardless of whether or not the other parent is part of the child’s life.

When notice is not required, what is the reason?

The third and final common scenario of when notice may not be required is if the other party is the reason that the custodial parent is requesting the name change in the first place. For instance, if the non-custodial parent sexually assaulted or abused the child.

Why do adults change their children's names?

Another reason that an adult may want to change the name of a child is if the child is a victim of a crime, such as stalking or domestic violence . Changing their name can help to protect their identity and may prevent the criminal offender from finding them again in the future.

What is the purpose of reviewing state laws?

The laws of a particular state will specify the exact requirements and procedures. Thus, it is important to review either the state laws, a court’s website, or to call a court clerk if an individual is not sure how to proceed. Alternatively, they can also speak to a lawyer who handles such matters.

Why do people change their names?

The main reason that the legal name change process exists is so that a person may preserve their constitutional right to change their name, while at the same time doing it in a manner that is recognized by the law. If a person changes their name in a way that is considered illegal or unofficial, they could face serious legal consequences.

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.

How often do you change your name?

Most people will change their name at the most once, perhaps twice, in their lifetime. The process can be more complicated and drawn-out than it may appear at first glance. You are trying to have your legal identity changed and to have that change recognized not only by local, state, and federal governments, but also by creditors, landlords, employers, and anyone else with whom you have entered any formal arrangement.

Why do people change their names?

People typically change their names because they either marry or divorce . Individuals going through gender transition may also seek to change their names. However, you do not actually need a specific reason to change your name. So long as you are not breaking any laws by changing your name, you are legally permitted to do so.

What does the judge decide when a petitioner is trying to commit fraud?

The judge decides the petitioner is trying to commit fraud. The petitioner is trying to hide from the law, police, or other legal agency. The petitioner is on parole. The petitioner is incarcerated. If you are trying to have your child’s name changed, such as after a divorce, you will need to convince a judge that the name change is in ...

Can you change your name without a court order?

It is crucial, however, that your reasons are sufficient to justify the process name changes require. It is worth noting that, in California, you can change your gender with or without a name change. You may be able to change the gender on your driver’s license, social security card, and U.S. passport without a court order.

How to change your name in court?

In order to change your name through the court, you must petition the court for a name change. This can be done through a Petition for Change of Name or other documents related to your legal status, such as a divorce decree or adoption petition. You must provide the following:

What documents are needed to change your name?

If you are changing your name outside of divorce, then you may have other documents to prove your name change, such as: Court order. Adoption records.

How to change your name on your Social Security card?

Name Change on Your Social Security Card. In order to get a name change on your Social Security Card, you will have to complete a form SS-5. You must also provide certain documents to the Social Security Administration in order to prove your identity and to establish a reason for changing your name.

Why do people keep their married name?

Some people keep their married name because they’ve had it for so long that friends and even family are most familiar with their married name. Some people want to retain the same name as their children. If you choose to retain your married name, you can remove that section from your divorce paperwork.

Who is Cheryl Alsandor?

Contact The Alsandor Law Firm for a consultation with Cheryl Alsandor, a family and name change specialist who is Board Certified in Family Law by the Texas Board of Specialization, or any family law associate at The Alsandor Law Firm serving clients throughout the Greater Houston, Texas area.

Can a father fight a name change?

If the father fights this name change, it can be particularly difficult. It’s often best to work with a name change lawyer who can help you prove that a name change would be best for your children.

Can you change your name if you are divorced?

Change of name for a divorced spouse or child of a former relationship. The court will grant you a name change if you are an adult and have no felony charges or if you are seeking the change for a child of a former relationship.

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 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.

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 ...

Who can consult with constitutional lawyers?

People with advocacies can consult constitutional lawyers if they think their rights have been violated. For instance, non-profit organizations like the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) and the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP) employ constitutional lawyers to protect minorities involved in a legal process.

What is a family lawyer?

Family Lawyers. These are lawyers who handle all kinds of domestic cases, such as divorce, legal separation, child custody, adoption, paternity, alimony, prenuptial or postnuptial agreements, and emancipation. But family attorneys may also handle reproductive rights cases, and their work may intersect with other areas of the law.

What do lawyers do?

Different types of lawyers specialize in different areas of law. Some lawyers mostly do the work outside of the courtroom, such as drafting contracts and wills, preparing documents to comply with a process, negotiating deals, and advising clients on a legal problem. There are also lawyers who present cases in court or litigations ...

Why do we need malpractice lawyers?

Since these are professions that ascribe to a set of standards , they have greater professional responsibilities that may be challenged in the courtroom or in litigation.

What is a real estate lawyer?

Real estate lawyers provide legal guidance for individuals or companies seeking to buy or sell a property. They work with their clients and the real estate agents to draft documents and ensure that the paperwork is legally binding. They may also negotiate for the buyer or seller, or represent a property owner during a foreclosure dispute.

What kind of lawyer handles reproductive rights?

But family attorneys may also handle reproductive rights cases, and their work may intersect with other areas of the law. For instance, if there’s a criminal investigation of child abuse or a domestic violence case, or if there’s a juvenile delinquency case, a family lawyer may also work with a criminal lawyer. 3. Estate Planning Lawyers.

What do IP lawyers need to know?

They need to have expert knowledge in both business and innovation trends. IP lawyers may also negotiate settlements on behalf of the creator or inventor if someone has infringed on their work, such as in cases where branded goods are faked and sold for a lower price in the market.

Who holds title to a home?

Title can be held by a sole owner.

What to do before transferring a warranty deed?

So, before transferring a general warranty deed, the owner has to resolve all mortgages, tax liens, judgment liens and other relevant debts and encumbrances. If you are transferring property under a general warranty or similar deed, it’s wise to seek professional assistance.

What is warranty deed?

The general warranty deed promises that no unmentioned lienholders exist who might have claims to the property; it means the owner is free to sell the home . Warranty deeds are used in “arm’s length” transactions — between people who don’t know each other apart from the real estate deal.

What is a quitclaim deed?

Quitclaim deeds are cost-effective tools for transferring interests in real property when there is no need for researched guarantees. Always consider potential tax implications before you decide to transfer real estate, including tax on the deed transfer itself.

What is the correct language for a conveyance?

The correct language, including words of conveyance, must appear: a statement from the grantor conveying the interest to the grantee, and the amount of consideration. The consideration is the value exchanged for the deed. If the grantee pays, the payment amount is included.

How to get a copy of a deed to a house?

Retrieve your original deed. If you’ve misplaced your original deed, get a certified copy from the recorder of deeds in the county where the property is located. You’ll need to know the full name on the deed, the year the home was last bought, and its address. Expect to pay a fee for a copy of the deed.

Who signs a deed in Florida?

For an example, in Florida a grantor must sign the deed before a notary and two witnesses — who also sign in the notary’s presence. As you can see, a state and the counties will have specific requirements for the deed, which can include formatting, return addresses, the name of the deed preparer, and so forth. Step 5.

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