Lawyer for Legal Name Changes in Davis County
Guiding Clients Through the Complex Name Change Process
When we are born, our parents choose our first and last names. In Utah, your legal name is essential because it is used to identify you for all official purposes. An individual’s legal name must be used when carrying out specific acts, such as enrolling a child in school, obtaining a driver’s license, passport, or Social Security card, and opening bank accounts.
However, situations and circumstances often cause individuals to want to legally change their names. If you are considering changing your name, it is best to consult a lawyer who will thoroughly review your case and ensure the process goes smoothly.
To learn more about how our name change attorney can assist you with your legal needs, contact Able & Strong Law, Inc. at our Davis County law office to schedule a consultation so we can answer your questions.
Who Can File a Petition to Change Their Name in Utah?
Utah law allows individuals at least 18 to change their name legally. In cases where minors wish to change their legal names, they must have parental consent or approval through a court order. Minors and adults who wish to change their name must be county residents for at least one year to file a name change petition in that county’s district court.
Some restrictions apply to trying to legally change your name, including trying to circumvent the sex offender registry, avoid creditors, commit fraud, or perpetrate other criminal actions. In other cases, if a parent objects to a minor changing their name, the other parent must petition the court, which will decide the matter.
It should also be noted that no one is permitted to change their name to something that is unduly lengthy or considered offensive to common decency.
If you are unsure whether you meet the qualifications to change your name, contact our Davis County law firm today. We will happily schedule a consultation with our experienced attorney, who will gladly answer your questions
What are the Most Common Reasons Individuals Want to Change Their Name?
Utah residents may request to have their names legally changed for many reasons. For example, an individual who has gone through a contentious divorce may decide to revert back to their maiden name. Conversely, same-sex partners may file a name change petition to share a common surname.
In other cases, those who have been through traumatizing events that have played out in the public eye often choose to change their name to maintain privacy. Adoptive parents may also seek to change their child’s name once the adoption process has been completed.
Other common reasons individuals petition for a name change include gender change, religious conversion, or the desire to have a fresh start in life.
Regardless of why you would like to change your name, our Davis County law firm can offer strategic advice on what to expect and how to start the process. Our experienced name change attorney has comprehensive experience in helping clients and will gladly assist you with your legal needs.
What Documents Are Required When Petitioning for a Name Change?
If you live in Utah and wish to change your name, one of the first documents you need to produce is a completed “Petition for Name Change” form. The petition form will ask you why you want a name change and the proposed name. The form also asks other standard questions, such as your date of birth and address. Depending on why you are seeking a name change, the form may also ask you to provide your spouse’s name and details regarding any other names you have used.
You must also provide a government-issued photo ID and proof of residency, such as a utility bill. Depending on your situation, other necessary documents may include:
- A marriage certificate or divorce decree
- Court order granting the name change
- Sex change forms
If your name is currently on the sex offender registry, you can still petition to change your name. The court will review the request to ensure it does not jeopardize public safety. If the request is granted, the new name will be published on the registry
At Able & Strong Law, Inc., we are committed to helping clients collect supporting documentation and will assist you in filling out legal paperwork. Allow our qualified legal team to help you begin the next chapter of your life.
What Makes Your Law Firm the Right Choice to Help Me With a Name Change?
In our modern world, there are several reasons why individuals decide to change their names. Whether you wish to change your name to match your gender identity or return to your maiden name, our law firm will stand by your side through every step of the legal process.
Before you go to the name change hearing, our attorney and team of legal professionals will review your paperwork to identify any potential issues that could delay your case or pose potential problems. Our goal is to help you resolve your legal needs so you can focus on the future.
We will also provide legal representation at the name change hearing while the judge reviews your request. Our skilled attorney will act as your advocate with the court and answer questions about why you should be granted a name change. We will also provide supporting documentation and ensure all paperwork meets legal scrutiny. If the judge grants your request, we will guide you on your next steps and ensure that all proper authorities know about the change.
Contact Able & Strong Law, Inc. at 385-334-5024 to schedule a consultation with our highly trained name change attorney, who will gladly help you begin the legal process.