What are Name Change Petitions?
In California, a name change petition is a court process to legally change your name through a court order (decree).
You start by filing a petition with the Superior Court in your county, paying a fee (or applying for a waiver), publishing the notice in a newspaper (with some exceptions for gender identity), and then attending a court hearing. The judge will issue a court order, which you then use to update your name on all other official documents, like your driver's license, passport, and social security card.
What The Petition Involves:
1) Filing the petition
You must file the necessary forms, such as the Petition for Change of Name (form NC-100).
2) Paying fees
A filing fee of approximately is required, but you can apply for a fee waiver if you cannot afford it.
3) Publishing a notice
You must have the petition published in a newspaper for one month. This requirement can be waived if the name change is for gender identity recognition.
4) Court Hearing
You will attend a court hearing where a judge will review your petition and make a decision.
5) Receiving the court order
If approved, the judge will issue a court order, also known as a name change decree, which is the official document you need to change your name on other records.