Navigating the legal landscape of changing your name as an adult in Texas can seem daunting at first glance. However, in addition to helping clients with their agreed divorces, here at Simple Texas Divorce we help clients all over Texas change their names as well.
With the right guidance and understanding of the process, it can be a straightforward journey.
This blog post aims to demystify the name change process in the Lone Star State, providing a clear, step-by-step guide to help you embark on this new chapter of your life.
Step 1: Determine Eligibility
First and foremost, it's essential to ensure you meet the eligibility criteria for a name change in Texas. You must be at least 18 years old and not seeking the name change for fraudulent purposes or to evade legal responsibilities, such as debts or criminal charges.
Step 2: Complete the Petition
The process begins with filing a Petition for Change of Name of an Adult. With just a short consultation, our attorneys can get this drafted and filed for you, often within a couple days.
To help us prepare the name change petition, we will require detailed information, including your current legal name, the name you wish to adopt, and reasons for the name change. It also requires disclosures about any criminal history. The petition must be filed in the county where you reside.
Step 3: Fingerprinting
Texas law requires fingerprint submission for a background check by the Department of Public Safety (DPS) and the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) as part of your application. We will help you with step-by-step instructions about how obtain a fingerprint card from local law enforcement agencies or third-party vendors approved by the DPS and then how to get that properly submitted to the Court.
Step 4: File Your Petition
Our Simple Texas Divorce attorneys will work with you to get your Petition filed in the correct county and in the manner necessary to meet all requirements.
Step 5: Attend the Court Hearing
After filing, we will help you get a date for your court hearing. During this hearing, you'll be asked to state your reasons for the name change. The judge will review your petition and background check results to ensure there's no legal reason to deny your request.
If everything is in order, the judge will sign an order granting your name change.
Step 6: Update Your Legal Documents
Following the court's approval, it's time to update your legal documents to reflect your new name. Start with your Social Security card and driver's license, as you'll need these to update other records. You'll also want to inform the IRS, your employer, bank, and any other relevant entities.
Step 7: Vital Records
If you wish to change your name on your birth certificate, you can do so by submitting a certified copy of your court order to the Texas Vital Statistics office, along with the required form and fee.
Conclusion
Changing your name is a significant step that can affirm your identity and begin a new chapter in your life.
While the process involves several legal steps, understanding the requirements and preparing accordingly can make it a smooth transition. Importantly, our expert attorneys at Simple Texas Divorce will guide you every step of the way and make sure the process is as smooth as possible.
Embarking on a name change is not just about altering your identity on paper; it's about embracing a new phase of your life with confidence and legal recognition. We will help ensure the process is handled efficiently and professionally in accordance with Texas laws.
