Change of Name Deed Solicitors

Changing your name or your child’s name is a big decision.

Whatever your reasons for changing a name, our expert family law solicitors are ready to help.

What is a Change of Name Deed?

Change of Name Deeds, also known as Deed Polls, are legal documents used to officially change a person’s name. They serve as proof of your new name and needed to update official documents like your;

• Passport
• Driving license, and
• Bank accounts

For adults, the process typically involves preparing and signing a Deed Poll. For children, other legal steps and parental consents are often required.

Why You Might Need a Name Change

Changing your name can arise from many life situations. You may choose to take this significant step because of:

Marriage or Civil Partnership

• Taking a Partner's Name: Many individuals opt to take their spouse's surname as a traditional or symbolic gesture of their union.
• Combining Surnames: Couples may choose to merge their last names into a new, shared surname. Or create a hyphenated version that reflects both family names.

Divorce or Separation

• Reverting to a Maiden Name: After a divorce or separation, some individuals prefer to return to their previous surname.
• Moving Forward: Changing a name can signify a fresh start after the end of a relationship.

Gender Identity

• Reflecting True Identity: If you're transitioning or aligning with your gender identity, a name change can be an essential part of their journey.
• Creating Consistency: A name change can help avoid confusion in personal, professional, and legal settings.

Family Unity

• Sharing a Common Surname: Parents may want to change their own or their child’s surname to match the family unit.
• Blended Families: After remarriage or adoption, aligning surnames symbolises the formation of a new family.

Who Can Make a Change of Name?

Changing a name needs careful consideration. The process and eligibility are different for adults and children.

Adults

Any adult aged 18 or older can legally change their name.

Adults are not required to provide a specific reason to change their name. However, it must not be fraudulent or illegal purposes.

Children

Changing a child’s name requires extra considerations and legal steps:

• Parental Responsibility: Consent is needed from all individuals with parental responsibility. This often includes the child’s mother and, in many cases, the father or legal guardians.
• Court Approval: If there is a dispute between parents, you might need to resolve it in family court with a Specific Issue Order.
• Child’s Best Interests: Courts prioritise the welfare of the child when making decisions about name changes.
• Age and Consent: Older children may need to provide their consent if they are mature enough to understand the implications of the change.

Who Cannot Change Their Name?

While most people can change their name, there are legal restrictions in place to prevent misuse. Here are the common circumstances where a name change may not be allowed:

• Fraudulent Intent: Individuals cannot change their name to commit fraud, evade debts, or escape criminal liability.
• Prohibited Names: Certain names may be restricted, including:
  • Offensive or vulgar names.
  • Names including symbols, numbers, or punctuation marks (except hyphens or apostrophes where appropriate).
  • Titles such as “Sir,” “Dr.,” or “Lord,” unless legitimately earned.
• Court Restrictions: If an individual is under certain legal orders (e.g., bankruptcy or parole).
• Parental Consent Denied: You can’t rename a child without consent from all individuals with parental responsibility. Unless court approval is obtained.
• Age Restrictions: Individuals under the age of 18 need parental or guardian consent.

If you are unsure whether you are eligible to change your name, our solicitors can provide expert advice and guide you through the legal requirements.

How Can Ringrose Law Help?

At Ringrose Law, we can make the process of changing your name or your child’s name as straightforward and stress-free as possible.

We understand that name changes often involve personal or emotional reasons. As such we provide support with sensitivity and empathy.

We offer;

• Legal Guidance: We'll explain the legal requirements and process in simple terms. You'll fully understand your rights and responsibilities.
• Document Preparation: From drafting Deed Polls to handling court applications, we'll manage all necessary paperwork with precision.
• Parental Dispute Resolution: For child name changes, we mediate disagreements between parents. If necessary, we can represent you in court.
• Comprehensive Support: From start to finish, we are with you every step of the way.