How to Legally Change Your Name Without a Lawyer

A name can be changed legally without attorney assistance.

A legal name change does not require an attorney and can be completed by yourself. You must follow some guidelines: You cannot change your name to that of a famous person, you cannot change your name to avoid legal issues, and you cannot change your name to one that is demeaning or has a negative connotation. By following your state's requirements, you can legally change your name within weeks.

Instructions

1. Visit Newlastname.org (listed in the Resource section). Select your state. Access and print the name change forms.

2. Read the instructions for filing a name change. Each state has slightly different requirements. Some states will not allow a name change if you have been convicted of a felony. Some require a fingerprint criminal history record. Read and follow the steps outlined by your state's laws.

3. Complete the name change forms and make sure you have followed all requirements. Fill out the Petition for Change of Name as well as the Final Decree for Change of Name. If your state requires the publication of your name change request in a newspaper, attach proof of publication to your application.

4. Submit the completed forms to your county clerk's office. Review the name change forms for exact address. Pay the fee that your state requires.

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

6. Take the order to your local driver's license office and Social Security office to update your legal information. Additionally, send photocopies of the order to your creditors and other business contacts to update your new name in their records.

Tips & Warnings

• In some states, if the schedule allows, you are allowed a brief court appearance on the day your turn in your forms.

• Some states do not require a court appearance and will mail you the signed order.

References

• Us Legal Forms: Change of Name
• NOLO: Name Change FAQ

Resources

• New Last Name: State Name Change Laws