Oklahoma Name Change Instructions and Forms Package for a Minor
What is a Name Change for a Minor?
A name change for a minor refers to a legal process that allows a person under the age of 18 to change their name. In Oklahoma, this process requires filing a petition in the District Court. This name change may be necessary for various reasons, such as personal preference, family changes, or cultural considerations. The forms included in this package guide users through the steps necessary to change a minor's name legally.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Completing the Forms
Follow these steps to successfully complete the Name Change petition:
- Gather all necessary documents and ensure you can meet the residency requirements of your county.
- Complete the Petition for Change of Name form with complete names and required information.
- Obtain consent from the minor (if they are 12 or older) and any non-consenting parents as required.
- Have the Petition notarized before filing it with the District Court along with copies of all documents.
- Publish the Notice of Filing Petition for Change of Name in an authorized newspaper at least ten days before the hearing.
- Attend the court hearing and present your case.
- Once approved, obtain a certified copy of the Order of Name Change from the clerk.
Key Components of the Forms
This packet includes important forms required to process the name change:
- Petition for Change of Name: States the reasons for the name change.
- Minor's Consent: Required if the minor is aged 12 or older.
- Order of Name Change: Finalizes the request once the court approves.
- Publisher’s Affidavit: Proves the publication of the notice.
- Affidavit of Mailing: Confirms that notice was sent to non-consenting parents.
Who Should Use This Form?
This form is intended for parents or legal guardians of minors residing in Oklahoma who wish to legally change the name of a child under their care. It is essential to ensure that you have valid reasons for the name change and that it is not for fraudulent purposes.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
To ensure a smooth name change process, be aware of the following common mistakes:
- Using incomplete names or initials when filling out the forms.
- Failing to publish the Notice of Filing Petition for Change of Name within the required timeframe.
- Not obtaining the required consents from the minor or non-consenting parents.
- Overlooking proper filing fees when submitting forms to the District Court.
What to Expect During the Court Hearing
During the hearing, you will present your case to the judge, who may ask questions about the reasons for the name change. Other individuals may also have the opportunity to voice their opinions. If the judge approves the name change, they will sign the Order of Name Change, which you will need to obtain in certified form afterward.
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FAQ
Marriage or Divorce Sometimes, when parents divorce, if one parent is awarded the majority of custody, they may choose to change the child's last name.This could be the last name of one of the parents, a hyphenated last name, or even a name that represents the combining of the two last names.
Visit your local County Court Clerk to file the completed forms and a certified copy of the minor's birth certificate. The clerk will ask for a filing/publication fee of $165.70 and, once they accept the paperwork, set a hearing date.
As of 2019, the court filing fee is $144.14, plus $30 for a separate publication notice fee, for a total of $174.14. After filing the necessary paperwork with the Court Clerk, the process usually takes about 2-3 weeks before the name change is final.
Social Security Administration. Department of Motor Vehicles. Passport Office. Post Office. IRS. Voter Registration. Banks and other financial institutions. Credit Card companies (or issuers)
Social Security Administration. Department of Motor Vehicles. Passport Office. Post Office. IRS. Voter Registration. Banks and other financial institutions. Credit Card companies (or issuers)
You probably expect to need to update your Social Security information and your credit cards, but there are plenty of other people who need to know about your new name as well. "A name change can have an impact on your taxes. All the names on your tax return must match Social Security Administration records.
Generally, you will not be able to change your child's surname without the permission of the other parent if: the other parent is listed on the Child's Birth Certificate, and.
First, you file the Petition for Change of Name for your child. Then, you will get a court date between 6 and 12 weeks away. If the court approves your request, you will get a court order called a "decree" changing your child's name. The court process can take up to 3 months, though in busier courts it may take longer.
If one parent is out of the picture, you don't need consent to change your child's last name. You do need to serve him or her with a conformed copy of the Order to Show Cause form. The other parent still does not have to consent or agree, just get served. Once served, a Proof of Service form must be filed.