That’s great to know. In that case, www.avvo.com is an excellent resource for finding an attorney in Georgia.
Here’s what you’ll typically need to do before or while hiring counsel:
- Complete the Name Change Petition – You mentioned you’ve already downloaded the forms. You’ll want to fill those out completely, indicating the name you’re changing from and to.
- Background Check (if applicable) – In Georgia, you may be required to submit fingerprints for a background check to ensure you’re not changing your name to avoid legal consequences.
- File Your Petition – Submit the forms to the Superior Court in your county and pay the filing fee.
- Publish Notice (if required) – Georgia law may require you to publish a notice of the name change petition in a local newspaper for four consecutive weeks unless waived by the court.
- Attend a Hearing – Once your hearing is scheduled, you’ll appear in court. This is where having an attorney might be helpful but is not required.
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I need a name change.
I understand you're looking to change your name. Can you please confirm if this is for yourself or for someone else?
For me. I got divorced, and the judge said I can drop my married name, but it’s too much to change.
In which state are you currently residing, as name change laws can vary by location?
Georgia.
Hi there! Welcome to AskaLawyer. My name is Liz and I’ve been an attorney for more than a decade, and I’m here to assist with your concerns.
To start, what part of your name are you changing?
Last name.
Thank you for sharing that. Are you only seeking representation, or have you considered filing the forms yourself?
I have downloaded the forms, but it’s recommended to have representation during the court date.
Can you advise what I need to do prior to hiring counsel?
May I ask—do you have any criminal record? I ask because that can be the main hang-up with a name change. Courts want to ensure a name change isn’t being used to avoid legal obligations or criminal charges.
No, I don’t have any criminal charges.
That’s great to know. In that case, www.avvo.com is an excellent resource for finding an attorney in Georgia.
Here’s what you’ll typically need to do before or while hiring counsel:
- Complete the Name Change Petition – You mentioned you’ve already downloaded the forms. You’ll want to fill those out completely, indicating the name you’re changing from and to.
- Background Check (if applicable) – In Georgia, you may be required to submit fingerprints for a background check to ensure you’re not changing your name to avoid legal consequences.
- File Your Petition – Submit the forms to the Superior Court in your county and pay the filing fee.
- Publish Notice (if required) – Georgia law may require you to publish a notice of the name change petition in a local newspaper for four consecutive weeks unless waived by the court.
- Attend a Hearing – Once your hearing is scheduled, you’ll appear in court. This is where having an attorney might be helpful but is not required.
I hope I was able to help resolve your issue! If you have any other questions, feel free to ask.
