How to Petition for a Family Name Change in New Mexico
Specific procedures must be followed in order for you to change your family name in New Mexico. You do not have to have an approved legal reason to obtain a new last name, but you cannot do so in order to commit fraud, such as attempting to evade creditors. After the name change paperwork has been filed and all other requirements have been met, you must attend a hearing to finalize the change, and any party with an objection is allowed to speak at that time.
Other People Are Reading
Instructions
-
-
1
Get the name change form from your district court office. Request the form you need. The minor form is for a person younger 14, and the adult form is for a person older than 14. Obtain instructions for the forms if possible and ask the court clerk about any additional requirements.
-
2
Publish a legal notice of the name change. State law requires you run a legal notice of the name-change petition in a local print publication for at least once per week for two weeks straight prior to filing the petition. Include the following: a statement indicating you are applying for a name change, your current name and proposed new name, the date and time you are applying, and where. Get a copy of the ad and proof of the publication dates from the newspaper.
-
-
3
Fill out the forms for the name change in full. State your reason for the name change. Look over the spelling to verify your name will be entered properly on record. Attach the proof of publication.
-
4
Get the petition notarized. Visit your local bank or the county recorder's office to receive notary services.
-
5
File the petition and notice of publication in the district court. You will receive notice of your name change hearing by mail.
-
1
