Top Questions about West Virginia Name Change
To change your name in West Virginia, you need to file a petition with the circuit court in the county where you currently reside. The petition should include your current name, desired new name, reason for the name change, and any supporting documents required by the court. After filing the petition, a hearing will be scheduled where you must present your case. If approved, you will receive a court order granting the name change.
When filing a name change petition in West Virginia, you typically need to provide a certified copy of your birth certificate or other identification document, such as a passport. Additionally, you may be required to submit a fingerprint-based criminal record check, especially if you have been convicted of a felony.
The duration for changing your name in West Virginia can vary depending on the workload of the court system and the complexity of your case. Generally, it takes around 2 to 3 months from the date of filing the petition until the court order is issued. However, this timeframe can be longer if there are any complications, delays, or if the court requires additional documentation.
Yes, generally anyone can change their name in West Virginia as long as they can demonstrate a valid reason for the change, such as marriage, divorce, adoption, religious or cultural reasons, or personal preference. However, name changes for fraudulent purposes, to evade legal obligations, or to harm someone else's reputation are typically not allowed.
The cost for changing your name in West Virginia varies depending on the county where you file the petition. Generally, you can expect to pay between $150 and $200 for filing fees and additional court costs. However, if you cannot afford the fees, you may be eligible for a fee waiver by submitting a written request to the court, explaining your financial situation.
West Virginia Name Change Detailed Guide
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Name Change West Virginia forms are legal documents used by residents of West Virginia to legally change their name. These forms are required to initiate the name change process and provide the necessary information to the court.
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The main types of Name Change West Virginia forms include:
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1. Petition for Name Change: This form is used to formally request a name change. It requires information such as the current legal name, desired new name, reasons for the name change, and contact information of the petitioner.
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2. Notice of Name Change: This form is used to notify the public about the impending name change. It must be published in a local newspaper to provide an opportunity for anyone to object to the name change.
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3. Order Granting Change of Name: This form is issued by the court once the name change is approved. It serves as legal proof of the name change and may be required to update identification documents, such as a driver's license or passport.
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To fill out Name Change West Virginia forms, follow these steps:
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1. Obtain the appropriate forms: Visit the website of the West Virginia Judicial System or the local courthouse to obtain the required Name Change forms. You may also be able to find them online.
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2. Read the instructions: Carefully review the instructions provided with the forms to understand the requirements and process for filling them out correctly.
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3. Provide accurate information: Fill out the forms with accurate information, including your current legal name, desired new name, reasons for the name change, and contact information.
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4. Sign and date the forms: Make sure to sign and date the forms where required. Unsigned forms may be rejected by the court.
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5. Submit the forms to the court: Once you have completed the forms, submit them to the appropriate court along with any required fees. Keep copies of the forms for your records.
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6. Publish the Notice of Name Change: If required, follow the instructions provided with the Notice of Name Change form to publish it in a local newspaper for the specified duration.
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7. Attend the court hearing: Depending on the court's requirements, you may need to attend a hearing to present your case for the name change.
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8. Obtain the Order Granting Change of Name: If the court approves your name change, you will receive the Order Granting Change of Name form. Keep this document safe, as you will need it to update your identification documents.
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