How Hard Is It To Change Your Name?
Nevada law allows an adult to change their name with relative ease. First, a Verified Petition is required, meaning the person that seeks the name change must sign off on the information in the actual court document. There are other specific steps to ensure the change is recognized by all relevant institutions. With the Real ID requirements looming, more people are finding it necessary to get a legal name change order to make the process of getting a Real ID easier. Included here is a concise guide to help you navigate the process:
1. Residency Requirement
You must have lived in the Nevada county where you're filing for at least six weeks and intend to remain there indefinitely.
2. Prepare and File Your Petition
Complete the necessary forms, including the Petition for Adult Name Change and a Civil Cover Sheet. If you have a felony conviction, you'll also need to submit your fingerprints. These documents are filed with the District Court in your county.
3. Publication Requirement
Most applicants must publish a Notice of Petition for Change of Name in a local newspaper once a week for three consecutive weeks. However, if you're changing your name to conform to your gender identity or if publication poses a risk to your safety, you may request a waiver. There is a recent case in Nevada indicating that if you do this incorrectly, you can try again by filing a new petition or otherwise correct the errors made. CITE.
4. Court Review and Order
After the publication period, if no objections are filed within 10 days, the court may approve your request. If objections arise, a hearing will be scheduled. Once approved, the court will issue an official Order Changing Name.
5. Update Personal Records
With the court order, update your name with various agencies:
Social Security Administration: Present the court order and required identification.
Nevada DMV: Bring your current ID, the court order, and an updated Social Security card.
Passport and Other Records: Use the certified court order to update your name on your passport, bank accounts, and other official documents.
Special Considerations
Marriage or Divorce: If your name change is due to marriage or divorce, the process may differ. For instance, a divorce decree that includes a name change eliminates the need for a separate petition.
Gender Identity: Those changing their name to align with their gender identity are exempt from the publication requirement.
Minors: A parent or guardian must file on behalf of a minor. If both parents are alive, they should file jointly. If one parent does not consent, they must be notified and given an opportunity to object.
Final Thoughts
While it's possible to navigate the name change process on your own, consulting with a Nevada lawyer such as Surratt Law Practice can provide clarity and ensure all steps are correctly followed.