There are a lot of reasons for changing a name.Some people don't like their current name.There's a good chance a court will grant your request if you don't harm the public interest.You can file a petition for change of name in Alabama.Here is what is happening.
Step 1: Do you know if you are eligible?
It's not a good idea to go through the name- change process and find out you don't qualify.You have to be 19 years of age or older to file the request and you can't avoid paying a debt or a judgment against you.
Step 2: You will need identification documents.
Proof of residency, a certified copy of your birth certificate, and a driver's license are some of the required documentation.
Step 3: You can get a copy of your marriage certificate.
If you changed your name after getting married or divorced, the court may want to review it.
Step 4: If you want a name change for a minor, you need to collect additional documents.
If you want to change the name of a minor in Alabama, you will need additional paperwork, such as a certified copy of the child's birth certificate and a social security card.If there is a court order that terminates the parental rights of the child's father or mother, a certified copy will be required.
Step 5: The form for the petition can be obtained from the court.
You can find the court in your area.You should be able to find this information online.There is a chance that the Probate court will have a website.You can get a Petition for Change of Name from the court clerk.The forms can be found on the website.
Step 6: Make sure to fill out the form completely.
It is important that the information requested be accurate.If you don't answer a question or give an incomplete answer, the clerk's office could reject the Petition.
Step 7: The petition should be signed in the presence of a notarial public.
The petition will not be accepted if it isn't notarized.If the petition is for a minor, both parents must sign it.
Step 8: If you have to get a criminal background check, you should check with the court clerk.
A criminal background check is required by some county Probate courts.Either they will do it for you or you will have to get it yourself.
Step 9: Determine the filing fee for the petition.
You will be charged by the courts for filing the Petition.Check to see if they accept personal checks and credit cards.
Step 10: The petition can be filed at the court clerk's office.
If you had to do it on your own, make sure you have everything you need, including the results of the criminal background check.
Step 11: You should attend the hearing.
Before you can change your name, you need to attend a hearing.The hearing usually includes answering any questions the judge might have about the Petition or the documents you've provided.This is normal, and the fact that the court requires a hearing doesn't mean there's a problem with your request.
Step 12: A new social security card is required.
You have a lot of work to do after you get the official document changing your name.It is important to apply for a new social security card.You can find more information at the Social Security website.
Step 13: You can change your driver's license.
The Department of Public Safety and the local motor vehicle office are in Alabama.You can find more information at http://www.dmv.org.
Step 14: A new birth certificate is required.
The Bureau of Vital Statistics is in Montgomery, Alabama.
Step 15: Credit card companies and banks can be contacted.
You will need to have new credit and/or debit cards issued with your new name.Talk to your bank about any accounts, loans, etc.That may need attention because of the name change.You may want to notify other companies as you move forward.