The Georgia state government provides a comprehensive guide on how to apply for a name change. Here are the key steps:
1. File a Petition:
- Complete and file a "Petition to Change Name" with the Superior Court in your county.
- Include a Verification Form and a proposed Order.
2. Publish a Notice:
- Georgia law typically requires that you publish a notice of your petition once a week for four consecutive weeks in a legal newspaper designated by the court.
- The court clerk will usually tell you which publication to use and may give you a notice form.
3. Attend a Court Hearing (if required):
- Some counties may schedule a hearing, while others might not. If there is a hearing, you’ll answer a few simple questions.
- The judge will likely grant your name change if everything is in order.
4. Obtain the Signed Court Order:
- Once granted, you’ll receive a certified court order officially changing your name.
5. Update Legal Documents:
- Use the court order to update your name with:
- Social Security Administration
- Georgia DMV
- Passport office
- Banks and other financial institutions
- Any other accounts or documents
Helpful Resources:
Upvote if this is a clear answer
Downvote if this is not a clear answer
Create DocumentFull Conversation
I am divorced and want to change from my married name back to my birth name.
I understand you're looking to change your name back to your birth name. Have you already started the process or are you seeking guidance on how to begin?
No, just started.
In which state are you currently residing, as name change laws can vary by location?
Georgia.
Is there anything else the Family Lawyer should know before I connect you? Rest assured they'll be able to help with your name change.
Nothing else. Thank you.
Hello! Legal Eagle here, and I am an attorney specializing in your area of law. I am more than happy to help you with your situation!
Have you considered how changing your name might affect any legal documents or accounts you currently have?
No, it will not. My divorce was a long time ago. I have no ties with my ex-husband.
The Georgia state government provides a comprehensive guide on how to apply for a name change. Here are the key steps:
1. File a Petition:
- Complete and file a "Petition to Change Name" with the Superior Court in your county.
- Include a Verification Form and a proposed Order.
2. Publish a Notice:
- Georgia law typically requires that you publish a notice of your petition once a week for four consecutive weeks in a legal newspaper designated by the court.
- The court clerk will usually tell you which publication to use and may give you a notice form.
3. Attend a Court Hearing (if required):
- Some counties may schedule a hearing, while others might not. If there is a hearing, you’ll answer a few simple questions.
- The judge will likely grant your name change if everything is in order.
4. Obtain the Signed Court Order:
- Once granted, you’ll receive a certified court order officially changing your name.
5. Update Legal Documents:
- Use the court order to update your name with:
- Social Security Administration
- Georgia DMV
- Passport office
- Banks and other financial institutions
- Any other accounts or documents
Helpful Resources:
Most name changes like yours are pretty routine, especially when you're reverting to a birth name. Once you get your court order, it's your golden ticket to legally update everything.
Let me know if you need help with the form or language in the petition!
