How should I modify my name change affidavit in South Carolina?
Navigating the name change process in South Carolina requires attention to legal details, especially regarding prior arrests.
Understanding the Affidavit Statements:
- “I have never been convicted of a crime under a name other than the names…”
– This checks if you've been convicted under any aliases. If not, you can affirm it. - “Below are the names I have used; however, I have never been arrested.”
– Since you’ve been arrested, you cannot affirm this as-is.
Recommended Steps:
- Modify the affidavit:
Use wording like: “Below are the names I have used; I have been arrested but never convicted of a crime.” - Consult the court clerk to ensure the modification is acceptable.
- Seek legal advice if you're unsure about how to phrase the affidavit or what’s required.
Key Considerations:
- Be honest. False statements can result in legal penalties.
- Courts assess petitions individually. Being transparent reflects integrity.
Full Conversation

So I need help with petitioning the court for a name change.

I understand you need help with petitioning the court for a name change. Have you already filled out the necessary paperwork?

I filled out the name change packet from SLED and sent it off, and I also sent off the DSS paperwork.

In which state are you located and planning to file the petition?

South Carolina.

Is there anything else the lawyer should know before I connect you?

I also need help with my affidavit.

Hello! I'm Craig, a Family Law expert, here to help with your name change petition and affidavit. It’s great that you’ve already taken some steps. Let’s make sure everything’s in order for South Carolina.
What specific information do you want to include in your affidavit?
Have you faced any challenges with documentation?
Are there any deadlines you’re working with?

On the affidavit, it says:
- “I have never been convicted of a crime under a name other than the names…”
- “Below are the names I have used; however, I have never been arrested.”
I have been arrested but never convicted, so I’m confused.
I’ve faced several challenges—lots of pointless trips to court because they wouldn’t provide the info I needed.
There’s no deadline, but I’d love to have this done as soon as I can.

Navigating the name change process in South Carolina requires attention to legal details, especially regarding prior arrests.
Understanding the Affidavit Statements:
- “I have never been convicted of a crime under a name other than the names…”
– This checks if you've been convicted under any aliases. If not, you can affirm it. - “Below are the names I have used; however, I have never been arrested.”
– Since you’ve been arrested, you cannot affirm this as-is.
Recommended Steps:
- Modify the affidavit:
Use wording like: “Below are the names I have used; I have been arrested but never convicted of a crime.” - Consult the court clerk to ensure the modification is acceptable.
- Seek legal advice if you're unsure about how to phrase the affidavit or what’s required.
Key Considerations:
- Be honest. False statements can result in legal penalties.
- Courts assess petitions individually. Being transparent reflects integrity.

Thank you so much for breaking it down and actually providing useful information.