During a Dissolution of Marriage the wife may ask for a name change to her maiden name or former name without any additional expense. If the wife does not change her name during the divorce process or if any person desires over the age of eighteen (18) to change his or her name, he or she must file a Petition for Name Change. If the person is under the age of eighteen (18), both parents must consent to the name change.

The name change process is generally fairly simple:

(1) you file a Petition for Name Change,

(2) file a set of fingerprints,

(3) have a background check done by FDLE which is filed with the clerk,

(4) and attend a hearing.

The judge will typically grant your request so long as the testimony you provide demonstrates to the Court that the Petition is being filed:

• without any ulterior motive,

• you have not filed for bankruptcy,

• you have not been convicted of a felony,

• you do not have a money judgment entered against you, and

• you have never had your civil rights taken away.

If any one of the aforementioned apply, the judge, at his or her discretion, on a case by case basis, may deny the request for name change. Hiring an attorney to assist you in changing your name can make the process easier and faster. We can help. Call 904.725.9300

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