How to Change a Name Legally in Chelan County, Washington

You can legally change your name through the court in your county.

Some people want to change their names for different reasons. It is possible they want to disassociate themselves with family members by changing their last name or it could be as simple as they do not like their middle names. Others may desire a name change to hold onto their family's nationality or for professional reasons. Whatever the reasons for wanting a name change, you must petition the Superior Court in Chelan County, Washington, to legally change your name.

Instructions

1. Call the Chelan County Court Clerk. Ask her to send the forms necessary to legally change your name. She may request that you visit the court house to pick up the forms. Unfortunately, the court does not offer them online.

2. Ask the clerk if there is a fee and how much the fee is. Each county in Washington sets their own fees. When you call to request your forms, the clerk can inform you of the exact amounts you will need to pay.

3. Fill out the forms. Provide the court with your Social Security number, full legal name and the full name you wish to acquire. You must also provide the court with a reasonable and detailed explanation of why you wish to change your name.

4. Send the forms, along with payment for the fees, to the clerk's office at Chelan County Superior Court, 401 Washington Street, 5th Level, P.O. Box 880, Wenatchee, Washington 98807-0880. The clerk will file your petition and it will be presented to the judge. He will grant or deny the petition and you will be mailed a copy of his decision.

Tips & Warnings

• If you want to change the name on your birth certificate and you were born in the state of Washington, you must send certified copies of your paperwork to the Department of Health in Washington.

• The court may not grant a name change if it finds that the change is intended for fraudulent purposes or if the new name would be identical to a well-know individual such as a celebrity.

References

• Washington Courts: Name Changes
• Chelan County Superior Court
• Legal Zoom: Reasons for a Name Change