How long does it take to change your name in California?

The court process of getting a court order after filing a Petition for Change of Name can take up to 3 months. First, you file your petition. Then, you will get a court date between 6 and 12 weeks away.

Is legally changing your name expensive?

When you file your name change petition forms, you’ll have to pay the California state Filing fee. The cost to file name change forms in California is $435. However, a few courts charge more (up to $480) but no California Name Change Courts charge less than $435 to file a Petition for Change of Name.

Do you need a lawyer to change your name in California?

And best of all, you don’t need a lawyer to change your name. You can use our California name change forms tailored specifically for your situation. Start the process by picking out a package which includes a petition to file with the court and the relevant state and federal agencies.

How do I legally change my first name in California?

Here’s how to change your first name in California:

1. Start the legal process. File a petition with your local court requesting the change.
2. Complete and File All Required Forms. Petition for Name Change Form NC-100.
3. Publish Notice of Name Change.
4. Court Hearing.

Is it difficult to change your name?

Although it may be seem daunting to show up at court or fill out legal paperwork, you don’t need to hire a lawyer to change your name. Filling out a Petition for Name Change can be fairly straightforward. But if you do feel overwhelmed by navigating the name change process yourself, consider outside help.

How do I change my first name in California?

How hard is it to change your name in California?

It is not difficult to change your name in California. In some cases, you no longer need a court order.

How do you change your name for free?

Preparing and Filing Forms

1. Request for Waiver of Fees. This form asks the judge to waive some or all of the costs of the name-change procedure.
2. Order for Waiver of Fees.
3. Petition for Change of Name.
4. Publication Notice.
5. Order for Change of Name.

Do you need a good reason to change your name?

You don’t need a good reason, just a legal one. You can change your name for any purpose short of breaking the law— and you can do it without a lawyer.

How much money does it cost to change a name?

Legal Name Change. Depending on your state, a successful legal name change costs anywhere from $75 (VIC) to over $245 (SA). For current certificate costs visit the BDM website for the state where your event took place or read the relevant section in the Easy Name Change guide.

How long to change your name in California?

Summary – How Long to Change Your Name in California Prepare Your Petition – 3-6 hours or more (unless we help. File, Hearing, Court Order – 3-6 hours to file (unless we help. Change Your Records – 2-3 days (most important ones) 2-6 months for them all

Do you need a name change in California?

Note: In California, you generally have the legal right to change your name simply by using a new name in all aspects of your life, also known as the ” usage method .”

How do I Change my Name in California?

The easiest way to change your name in California is by simply using the new name. As long as it is not done for fraudulent or unlawful reasons, a person can take on any name they choose. All a person has to do is use the newly chosen name for all purposes.