How to Legally Change the Name of a Minor in Georgia
Sometimes, a minor child will wish to change her name, perhaps because she doesn't like her given name, the name does not fit her personality or she prefers her nickname. A minor may wish to change her last name to that of a stepparent, even if the stepparent has not formally adopted her, or she may wish to adopt a new name after a religious conversion. The local superior courts issue legal name change orders upon petition. Georgia requires a parent or guardian of the minor file all such petitions, even if the minor is the one actually requesting the change.
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Instructions
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Complete a "Petition to Change Name of a Minor" form, available from your local superior court. Include the minor's current name, proposed name and address as well as the reason for the change. Sign and date the form.
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Attach a certified copy of the minor's birth certificate. You may order a certified copy from the county in which the child was born. Georgia counties may charge a fee for this service.
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File the petition with the superior court in the county or city that has jurisdiction over the minor's residence.
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Publish a notice of your intent to petition in the local newspaper, immediately after filing the petition with the court. Advise all other parents or legal guardians of the minor, in writing, of the name change petition.
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Appear with the minor at the petition hearing. Present proof of public notice (the newspaper ad) and proof of notice to all other parents and legal guardians. If the court approves the petition, you will be issued a name change order, and the minor's name will be legally changed.
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Tips & Warnings
You may not change the name of a minor with the intent to commit fraud or to escape debts in the minor's name.
Third parties may present objections at the hearing.
References
Resources
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