Florida law allows you to represent yourself in court when you go through the process of legally changing your name, so you are not required to work with an attorney. Yet many people choose to do so for a variety of reasons.
West Family Law Group helps individuals with all stages of the name change process, from filing the petition to effectuating the change. It is vital that all legal requirements are met to avoid delays and future problems. We will ensure that the name change is recognized legally in every aspect of your life.
Legal Issues
State, federal, and local governments will not accept your new name without an official court order. It is critical to get the change approved in a timely fashion to avoid problems with travel, employment, and other activities.
At West Family Law Group, we know the appropriate legal procedures to follow. We can prepare the correct forms, file petitions with the appropriate court, and represent your interests before the judge.
Our experience enables us to avoid most potential problems, but if a difficulty arises, we know the right strategies to overcome the obstacles and achieve your objectives. For example, if you cannot locate documents needed by the court, we can help obtain replacements or find alternative measures to satisfy legal requirements.
The Name Change Process
In Florida, you may have different options for changing your name depending on the reason for the change. For instance, if you want to change your name to reflect an adoption or divorce, we can have the court include the change as part of the proceedings if they have not been finalized.
In most cases, however, the name change process will require you to file a formal petition in court. You will need to satisfy that court that you are not seeking the change for improper reasons such as debt avoidance, or criminal purposes.
You will also need to submit fingerprints and undergo a criminal background check. When the background check is complete at the federal and state level, then the next step is to request a hearing date. In court, you will need to explain why you want to change your name, and the judge will determine whether to grant your request. Having an experienced attorney prepare your written explanations and represent your interests in court can make the process much less stressful and avoid the potential for errors or omissions.
Once your name change becomes official, you will need to take steps to change the name on official documents such as your passport, driver’s license, and Social Security card.
West Family Law Group Protects Your Interests in Legal Name Change Proceedings
Confusion about your legal name can lead to significant problems with accessing bank accounts and other critical tasks. For something this important, you deserve personalized advice and assistance from an experienced legal counselor.
As you affirm your identity with a new name, let the dedicated attorneys at West Family Law Group guide you through the process. We can help you avoid common errors and work with you to ensure that you notify the appropriate entities so that your name change proceeds smoothly. Contact us today to learn more about the ways we can assist.