How Do I Legally Change My Name in Utah?
People can change their names for many different reasons, including for something as simple as finding a new name to fit a person's personality. Whatever the reason, anyone who desires a name change must go through a legal process that varies from state to state. In Utah, the name change process falls under the authority of the district court of each locality.
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Things You'll Need
- Name change petition
- Department of Corrections certification form
- Fee waiver form
Instructions
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Obtain proof that you are not listed on the Utah Sex Offender Registry. This is a requirement for anyone wanting to change their name in Utah. Fill out your identifying information on the Department of Corrections Certification Regarding Sex Offenders form, which you can download from the Utah State Courts website. Mail the form to the Department of Corrections, which will verify that you are not on the list and mail the form back you.
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Make sure you satisfy the other requirements for obtaining a name change. You must reside for at least one year in the county where you file and be 18 or older. You cannot be involved in any lawsuits or be on probation or parole. You cannot change your name to avoid creditors, fines, criminal sentences or to commit fraud. You cannot change your name to one the court finds ridiculous or offensive.
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Pay the filing fee, which is $360. If you feel you cannot afford it, download the Motion and Affidavit to Waive Fees form from the Utah State Courts website and fill it out. Sign the form in the presence of a notary or the county clerk. Turn in the waiver form when you file your petition for a name change with the court.
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Fill out the Cover Sheet for Civil Actions and Petition for Name Change forms, which you must file with the court. You can download these forms at the Utah State Courts website. A notary or court clerk must witness your signature on the name change petition.
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Take your documents to your county district court and file them with the court clerk.
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Download the Order to Change Name form from the Utah State Courts website and bring it to the hearing with you. You will need this form if your name change petition is successful. When your case is called, go before the judge, tell her why you want to change your name and answer any questions she asks you. If the judge finds that there is good reason for you to change your name, she will grant your petition. Give the judge the Order to Change Name form. When the judge signs it you will have a new legal name.
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Tips & Warnings
Address the judge as "your honor" and be courteous to all court personnel.
Dress appropriately for the hearing. Showing up in shorts or a tank top can result in your removal from court.
