Generally, you can fill out and file a petition to change your name at your local courthouse (UT Code § 42-1-1(1)). You will then have a hearing with a judge and they will discuss with you why you would like to change your name, etc. If the judge agrees then they will enter a name change order. You can then use the order to change your name on your important documents.
Downvote if this is not a clear answer
Create DocumentFull Conversation
I need to change my birth name to the name I have always used. I have never used my birth name, everything I have shows the name I have always used.
I understand your situation. Have you already started the process of changing your name legally?
I just printed off the forms, but I'm so afraid of doing it wrong and wasting my money.
In which state or country are you currently residing?
I am in Utah but I was born in California.
Is there anything else the Lawyer should know before I connect you? Rest assured they'll be able to help with your name change.
I don't think so, I just need this to get a passport.
Hello, my name is Charlie and I am a licensed attorney. I would like to welcome you to AskaLawyer!
How long have you lived in Utah?
Almost 5 years.
Would you be changing your first and last name or one of the other?
Just my last name I think, since my birth name is Mejia and every form of ID I have says the last name of the family that raised me, and that is the name I have always used.
Did that make sense to you?
Yes, it does. You said you already found the forms for the name change from your county?
Yes I have them filled out but I just want to make sure it's correct, I don't want to mess up and waste my money with refiling.
Understood but unfortunately, review of forms is a premium service on this site. You would want to open a new chat and request a review of your forms specifically.
Generally, you can fill out and file a petition to change your name at your local courthouse (UT Code § 42-1-1(1)). You will then have a hearing with a judge and they will discuss with you why you would like to change your name, etc. If the judge agrees then they will enter a name change order. You can then use the order to change your name on your important documents.
I hope that helps!
Ok, thank you, bye.
You are welcome.
If at anytime you need an attorney to assist you, you can find a local attorney by contacting your local bar association and asking for a referral to one. You can also contact your local legal aid society as they offer free and low cost services in these types of cases. Another good resource is to contact your local law schools as they often have clinics with attorneys that will assist in these types of cases. My ultimate goal during our conversation is to make sure that you clearly understand the next steps to take in this matter. Please let me know if you need any clarification on the next steps or have any follow up questions as I will be very happy to assist you further.
Hello again, this is Charlie from AskaLawyer. I just wanted to come back into the chat and see if you had any follow up questions or concerns for me? If you do, I will be very happy to assist you further! Thank you!
