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How to Legally Change Your Name in California

Written by: Irina Semyonovna Puhachevsky

Reputation Level 7

Posted about 3 years ago. Applies to California, 3 helpful votes, 0 comments

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Consider Legal Help

Seemingly uncomplicated, the process of changing your name involves quite a few forms and you want to make sure that you fill them out correctly. An experienced attorney would be best suited to represent you.

Prepare and File Petition for Name Change and Other Related Documents

You need to fill out the Petition for Change of Name including relevant attachments. Then you need to prepare the Order to Show Cause for Change of Name. Please make sure to fill out relevant local forms, if any, like a Criminal Background Information Form. Please check with your local court if any such forms are required. Fill out the Civil Case Cover Sheet. Last but not the least, file all your papers with the requisite number of copies in the court in the county where you live.

Meet the Publication Requirement

Meet the publication requirement - Publish the Order to Show Cause in a newspaper of general circulation once per week for 4 weeks in a row. Please make sure to call a few newspapers as prices may vary greatly.

Go to Court

Show up for your court date and bring with you the proof of publication from the newspaper. Also make sure that you bring with you the Decree Changing Name for the judge to sign.

Get a Certified Copy of the Decree Changing Name

Once you obtain your Decree Changing Name, get a certified copy from the court. This copy will be necessary to change all your legal documents, including your birth certificate, social security card, and other papers like passport.