Name Change - Changing a Minor Child's Name

Name Change - easy name change kits & more

Useful advice about legally changing your name, name change kits & more.

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Changing the Name of a Minor Child

You cannot change the name of a minor child simply going by the common usage method. A name change for a child must be affected by the court system in any jurisdiction.

A minor child cannot legally decide to make a name change. The paper work and the court petition must be made by someone over the age of 18, and is usually done by a parent or legal guardian of the child.

In most cases, the reason for changing the name of a minor child will be a result of either a divorce, a marriage, or an adoption.

In some situations, while there will be no question about changing a child’s last name to your last name in the case of an adoption, questions may arise when there is a divorce involved.

Especially when there are children or a contested divorce involved, it often requires the services of an attorney. This site merely attempts to simplify the procedures involved, and describes the basic elements in getting a name change, and we always recommend consulting with an attorney for all final decisions involving legal matters.