Deciding
to change your name is a big decision, affecting your identity
and all your legal documentation. Given these implications, it
is important to understand the name change procedure, especially
if you’re considering a name change in Rancho Mirage, CA.
How
to Change Your Name
The
exact process for legally changing your name will vary from state to state.
In most states, the following steps might be involved:
- You
may need to prove that you are a resident in the
state in which you pursue your legal surname change.
States often have a minimum length of time in which
you must have lived in the state to acquire residency. - You
might need to provide proof of your current name,
such as a Social Security card and driver’s license. - A
petition to change your name could be necessary. This will
be a state-specific form and may require your current and
proposed names, address, Social Security number, and reason
for changing your name. This will then be filed with the court
clerk along with a required fee. - At
a a hearing, a judge might ask any questions about your
proposed name change. If the judge approves the change,
they will sign an order to that effect as proof of your new legal name.
Unacceptable
Name Change
There
are a limited number of circumstances when a name change might not be
allowed. Such scenarios include:
- To
carry out fraud; - If
you are a convicted felon, a registered sex offender, or have an outstanding warrant; and - If
you are seeking a Name Change for a minor and do not have permission
of both parents.
If you’re wondering how do I legally change my name
after marriage, or need assistance with an adult name change
in California, contact us for help with your name change service in California today.