What is a Name Change?

In order to legally change one's name, a Petition for Name Change, Verification form, Notice of Petition to Change Name, and Case Filing Information Form must be filed in the Superior Court of the county where the individual resides.

Within 7 days of the Petition for Name Change being filed, the Notice of Petition must be published in the county's local newspaper (specified by the Court) at least once per week for 4 consecutive weeks. Thereafter, the newspaper will provide a Publisher's Affidavit, to prove to the Court that notice by publication was given to the public.

At least 30 days after the Petition for Name Change has passed, the Court may schedule a hearing. So long as no objections are raised, there is no evidence of fraud, and there is nothing in the law prohibiting the person from assuming another name, the Court should grant the petition and issue a final judgment.

Following the hearing, a certified copy of the Final Order can be obtained at the Clerk's Office of the Superior Court. Once you receive a copy of the Final Order, you will be able to contact the Social Security Administration, Department of Driver Services, IRS, banks, creditors, or any companies you conduct business with, to provide them with a copy of the Final Order and change the name on your accounts.