Name Change
To change your name in the State of Florida, you will need to:
- File a Petition for a Name Change.
- Submit your fingerprints.
- Attend one mandatory court appearance with your attorney.
At the hearing, a Judge will generally ask you the following four (4) questions:
- Have you ever filed for bankruptcy?
- Have you been convicted of a felony?
- Are you changing your name for ulterior motives?
- Are you changing your last name to avoid creditors?
If your answer is “yes” to any of the above questions, the Judge can deny your request for a name change. However, if you have a valid reason, such as having always used the new last name but never changed it legally or wanting to revert to your maiden name, the Judge may still grant your request.
If you want your child(ren) to legally change their last name, the Petition for Name Change follows the same legal procedure. However, both parents must generally consent to the name change.
If the request is approved, you will receive a Final Judgment of Name Change signed by the Judge, legally changing your or your child(ren)’s name.
You should obtain certified copies of the Final Judgment of Name Change to update your records with:
- Department of Vital Statistics (to change your birth certificate).
- Department of Motor Vehicles (to update your driver’s license or ID card).
- Social Security Administration (to update your Social Security card).
- Department of State (to update your U.S. passport).
For additional information or questions regarding a name change, contact Attorneys at Law Joseph M. Corey, Jr., P.A. at (305) 557-1750 for a FREE consultation. Payment plans available and credit cards accepted.