Application To Change Name

Note: In California, you generally have the legal right to change your name simply by using a new name in all aspects of your life, also known as the "usage method." BUT, with few exceptions, government agencies require a court order as official proof of a name change so getting a court order is the best way to make

A mother, or father, cannot change a child's surname by herself or himself unless she or he is the only person with parental responsibility.Any child who has sufficient legal understanding may apply in their own right for the Court's permission to change their name.

If you want to change your child's name, the first step you need to take is to file a petition with the family court in your county requesting the change. You are obligated to notify the other parent and give them the opportunity to respond to your petition.

The clerk will give you a notice form which will include the date of the hearing. At this point you will be asked to pay all associated fees. The fee for submitting a name change application can be anywhere from $80 $150, depending on which county you're in.

Fill out your court forms. Have your forms reviewed. Make 3 copies of all your forms. File your forms with the court clerk. Serve the other parent of your child. Publish the Order to Show Cause for Change of Name (If Required) Go to your court hearing. Get your Decree Changing Name from the court.

Obtain a certified copy of the child's birth certificate. Complete the documents for filing. If the other parent does not or cannot consent, obtain the appropriate documents. File the paperwork with the probate court. Comply with publication requirements. Attend the hearing. Notify relevant parties.

Step 5 File Name Change Forms The clerk will give you a notice form which will include the date of the hearing. At this point you will be asked to pay all associated fees. The fee for submitting a name change application can be anywhere from $80 $150, depending on which county you're in.

If one parent will not agree to have a child's name changed, the other parent can file papers to request the change. The non-consenting parent must be served with copies of the name change papers and given a chance to object. A judge may or may not grant a child's name change without the other parent's consent.