Legal Question in Family Law in California

Re: minor name change

There are three basic steps to having your name changed by a court. The first step is filing an action in the proper court with the applicable forms and fee. In most states, the petitioner (the individual making the request) must publish a notice in a local newspaper stating that the action for name change has been filed. Also, the petitioner may be required to notify specific individuals affected by the name change.

In the case of individuals seeking a name change for a minor, one or more of the minor�s parents usually files the petition. If only one parent is filing on behalf of the minor, it is usually helpful if the absent parent consents to the name change. Complicated situations may arise if the non-custodial parent cannot be located, is incarcerated, or lives out of town. In a minor name change, consideration is given to whether the name change is in the best interests of the minor, and issues such as custody and parental notices are carefully examined.

Our Law Firm can most likely work within your budget to VERY affordably handle the entire process for you, if you retain us this week. Contact us directly with your request.