Legal Question in Civil Litigation in California

Re: name change

In California, common law allows you to use whatever name you want, as long as it's not for fraudulent purposes. Thus, a person can avoid having to go to court. The reasons people prefer to go to court is: 1) it's published in a newspaper of record, thereby potentially giving notice to the world; 2) it's a judicial proceeding that must be recognized in other states through "full faith and credit." If you choose the common law approach, you will have to change your name on everything -- driver's license, social security, credit cards, bank accounts. You can prepare a change of name form that can be notarized, so at least there's some formality to it.

Re: name change

I believe Mr. Cohen's answer is correct, though I am not an expert in this area.

You ask why you have to pay for a name change, and the answer is that courts generally charge fees for any type of civil proceeding. There is no reason why a name change should be treated differently from other types of filings.

Re: name change

To legally and officially change your name you must file a petition with the court to change your name. This will involve publication in the news paper and notice o family and friends. Given the present atmosphere changing your name as the other attorneys suggested while legal may result in future problems.