Minor name change in Colorado refers to the legal process of changing the name of a minor child, typically under the age of 18, within the state of Colorado. This process is carried out through the Colorado court system and requires the proper documentation, filing of forms, and adherence to specific legal procedures. There are two main types of minor name changes in Colorado: 1. General Minor Name Change: This type of name change is typically sought when there is a desire to change the minor child's name for personal or family-related reasons. This may include cases where a child's last name needs to be changed due to parental divorce, adoption, remarriage, or other family circumstances. It may also be requested if a parent identifies an error or misspelling in the original birth certificate. 2. Gender Marker Change: This type of name change is specifically related to transgender minors who wish to change their name to match their gender identity. It allows transgender minors to update their legal documents, such as identification cards, school records, and other essential documents, to reflect their chosen name. The process of minor name change in Colorado involves the following steps: 1. Filing the Petition: The first step is to file a petition with the Colorado court system. This involves completing the necessary forms, which can be obtained from the county courthouse or online. The petition must include detailed information about the minor child, the reason for the name change, and any supporting documents. 2. Consent of Parents/Guardians: In most cases, the consent of both parents or legal guardians is required for the minor name change. If one parent does not provide consent, a notice must be served to that parent, and a hearing may be required to determine if the name change is in the best interest of the child. 3. Publication of Notice: After filing the petition, the court may require publishing a notice of the name change in a local newspaper to provide an opportunity for any interested parties to object to the change. This is typically done to ensure transparency in the process. 4. Court Hearing: Once all necessary paperwork is completed and any required waiting periods have passed, a court hearing will be scheduled. During the hearing, the judge will review the documents, consider any objections, and make a decision regarding the name change. 5. Issuance of Order: If the court approves the name change, an order will be issued. This order serves as the legal document validating the name change and should be used to update all relevant records and identification documents for the minor child. It is important to note that minor name changes in Colorado require the assistance of an attorney or a legal aid clinic to navigate through the complex process. Additionally, the specific requirements and procedures may vary in different counties within Colorado. It is always recommended consulting with legal professionals to ensure compliance with the applicable laws and regulations.