I’ll try to give you some thoughts...
In Michigan, the cost of a legal name change depends on the county, but generally includes a filing fee of about $175–$200, paid to the Circuit Court. Since you're in Stanton, you'd file with the Montcalm County Circuit Court.
You’ll also need to publish notice of your name change in a local newspaper—unless the court grants a waiver (usually for safety concerns like domestic violence). Publication costs run about $30–$100 depending on the paper.
After the waiting period and publication, the court will hold a hearing. If approved, they’ll issue a certified order changing your name.
Since you've already filed, make sure to keep up with any next steps—attending the hearing, and getting certified copies of your order (about $10–$15 each), which you'll need for updating your ID, Social Security, etc.
If you have a criminal record or are changing a minor’s name, additional steps may apply under Michigan Compiled Laws § 711.1 et seq. If cost is a concern, you can apply for a fee waiver using Form MC 20, if you can show financial hardship.
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How much does it cost to change my name?
Where are you located? It matters because laws vary by location.
Michigan.
Has anything been filed or reported?
I just filed.
Is there anything else the lawyer should know before I connect you?
Nothing else to know.
Good afternoon and welcome to AskaLawyer. Please give me a moment to review your question.
Thank you.
I’ll try to give you some thoughts...
In Michigan, the cost of a legal name change depends on the county, but generally includes a filing fee of about $175–$200, paid to the Circuit Court. Since you're in Stanton, you'd file with the Montcalm County Circuit Court.
You’ll also need to publish notice of your name change in a local newspaper—unless the court grants a waiver (usually for safety concerns like domestic violence). Publication costs run about $30–$100 depending on the paper.
After the waiting period and publication, the court will hold a hearing. If approved, they’ll issue a certified order changing your name.
Since you've already filed, make sure to keep up with any next steps—attending the hearing, and getting certified copies of your order (about $10–$15 each), which you'll need for updating your ID, Social Security, etc.
If you have a criminal record or are changing a minor’s name, additional steps may apply under Michigan Compiled Laws § 711.1 et seq. If cost is a concern, you can apply for a fee waiver using Form MC 20, if you can show financial hardship.
Does that make sense?
Yes. Thank you so much. How do I go about publishing a notice in the newspaper?
You’d contact the newspaper directly—this is very common.
Thank you.
Of course. Chat anytime.
