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 are 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 will be required:
- You
will be required to prove that you are a resident in the state in
which you pursue your legal surname change. States will require a
minimum length of time in which you must have lived in the state to
acquire residency. - You
will need to provide proof of your current name, such as a Social
Security card, and driver’s license. - A
petition to change your name will be required. This will be a
state-specific form and will 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,
such as the California name change fee. - At
a hearing, a judge will ask any questions they have about your
proposed Name Change. Assuming the judge approves the change, he or
she will sign an order to that effect as proof of your new legal name,
known as a court ordered name change.
Unacceptable
Name Change
There
are a limited number of circumstances when a Name Change will not be
allowed. Such scenarios include:
- To
carry out fraud; - If
you are a convicted felon or have an outstanding warrant; and - If
you are seeking a Name Change for a minor and do not have permission
of both parents.
Contact us for help in getting your name legally changed today. Our
name change service in California can assist with an adult name change
in California or guide you on how do I legally change my name after marriage.