How to Change a Name While Under 18
There are different reasons why a person may want to change his or her name. Sometimes it's for religious reasons. Sometimes it serves professional purposes. It can also be due to dissatisfaction with the given name. In the United States, you have a legal right to change your name through court order. If, however, you are under 18 years of age, a parent or legal guardian must change the name on your behalf. Follow these steps for changing your name if you are a minor.
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Instructions
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Determine the procedures for name change of a minor in your state. Rules vary greatly from state to state, so contact the local clerk's office for specific guidelines.
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Ask your parents or legal guardian to fill out the petition for name change. Depending upon where you reside, there may be additional forms to submit including attachments to the petition, an order to show cause for name change, a decree changing name, a civil cover sheet and proof of service. You can obtain these forms from the local clerk's office or you may be able to download them online.
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Make two copies of each form and ask your parents or your guardian to submit them to the local probate court on your behalf.
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Be prepared to pay filing fees and court fees. If you cannot afford the fees, inquire about additional forms waiving the requirement.
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Obtain the date of your hearing and case number from the clerk's office.
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Submit the intent to change name to a newspaper of general circulation and supply information regarding the hearing date and time. The intent must be published continuously for a designated length of time, usually up to four weeks. This step must be completed prior to the court hearing.
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Attend the court hearing with your parents or guardian on the assigned date and bring required paperwork, birth certificate and other necessary forms of identification. Obtain a decree of name change from the probate court.
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Ask your parents or your guardian to change your name on other official documents on your behalf including school records, passport, hospital records, and insurance forms.
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Tips & Warnings
If filing the paperwork is confusing, consider hiring a lawyer or legal document service to assist you.
Don't delay in publishing the intent of name change in the local newspaper. This must be done before the court hearing.
In some cases, one parent can change a minor's name. In others, both parents must consent. Consult the guidelines in your jurisdiction for specific rules.
