There are two methods by which you can change your name a) obtain a court order b) get the name change done by the use of ‘common law’ or ‘ usage’ method. Obtaining the court order is the most sensible method. The second method may take years to come out with a result and moreover some of the government institutions will not accept the authenticity.
Requirements for a Name change
To answer the question “how to change your name”, the first and foremost thing for a name change is you have to be a resident of the country for a minimum period of one year, You will have to prove that the name change is not to escape from any sort of debts. If the name change is for a minor then you will have to assure that the change is in their best interests. The name change shouldn’t be a cause for a communal riot or it shouldn’t tarnish another person’s image. An unusual name will not be entertained by the court.
You will have to publish the name change case in a popular newspaper to notify the public. This has to be done a few weeks before the hearing on the name change case so that if anyone wants to raise an objection has enough time to do and then attend the hearing.
Notice of publication is a document that the courthouse or the local newspaper will publish in order to inform the local public about the name change case you are opting for, the very objective is to let the public know about the case because if you owe some money to any person he will not be left with an opportunity to raise an objection. An affidavit has to be signed in front of the notary public, this is done as an assurance that whatever information furnished in the petition is truthful.
Steps in the court
Try to contact the clerk of your country’s court to have an idea of the filing fee, so that you can bring the exact amount with you, after filling the required forms, give them to the clerk, he will give a receipt on acceptance and will give you a hearing date.
Attending the Hearing
Be present at the court on the date of hearing at the right time and when the court calls your name explain reasons why you are opting for a name change. Be alert and have a detailed study of your papers and make sure that you are through with the contents. Carry the copies of the stamped forms you have already filed and the affidavit proof of publication. The procedure usually is not complicated, make sure that you address the judge as ‘your honor’, be polite and always come out with the truth when questions are asked. When the turn of your case comes hand over the papers to the court officer and answers the questions with transparency.
Notification for change your name
The moment you obtain an order on the name change you will have to notify the government and private agencies, the court order is a legal proof that your name is changed. In some states, the judge issues an order instructing the newspaper to publish the notice of publication of name change. The document has to be prepared by you and need the signature of the judge. Proof of publication is an affidavit, the newspaper which published your name change case will sign as a proof that you published it. This document has to be presented at the time of hearing. Make sure that all the requirements demanded by the court are met at the time of hearing. After the hearing process an order will be signed by the judge confirming your name change, you have to take certified copies of this document and present it to government and other private agencies.