Legal Question in Family Law in Texas

name changes

Hi,

I live in Texas. My legal question and I hope you can answer this is; do I have to go to court to legally change my name? I want to but I read that in some states you can change it by usage only. But that was probably before 9-11. So can you tell me if I would have to go to court to change my name, perhaps even about how much that would cost and if it can be done in a reasonable amount of time or would it take a while? Also, do you have to have a specific reason for wanting to change your name? I know I asked a lot, but I've been unable to find anyone to answer these questions. If you could I would be very grateful.

Thank you for your time,


Asked on 9/18/03, 3:53 pm

1 Answer from Attorneys
Eric Williams Law Office of Eric L. Williams

Re: name changes

Adult Name Changes are covered in the Texas Family Code, sections 45.101 through 45.106.

A verified petition must be filed, with several requirements, including a set of fingerprints. Then an Order must be prepared, with specific findings by the Court. Once that Order is approved, with testimony on the record, you may then apply for a change of name certificate. As you can see, it is not as simple a process as most people believe - but it's also not a very complicated issue.

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Answered on 9/18/03, 6:04 pm


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