Services / Name Changes
Name Changes
Professional preparation of name change petitions for self-represented individuals throughout California. Whether you're returning to a former name, changing a child's name, or seeking gender-affirming recognition, we prepare your court paperwork accurately and at your specific direction.
What We Prepare
Adult Name Change
Petition for Change of Name, Order to Show Cause, and Decree Changing Name. For returning to a maiden name after divorce, personal preference, or any other lawful reason.
Minor Name Change
Petition to change a minor child's name, including consent forms and court-required attachments. Both parents typically must consent or be notified.
Gender Recognition Name Change
Name and/or gender marker change petitions, including confidential filing options available under California law. We handle these with the dignity and privacy they deserve.
Name Change After Divorce
If your divorce decree already includes a name restoration, we can prepare the certified copy request and help you update your identification documents.
Fee Waiver Requests
If you cannot afford the court filing fees, we can prepare the fee waiver application (Form FW-001) alongside your petition at your direction.
How It Works
Free Consultation
We discuss the type of name change you need and gather the required background information. For gender recognition filings, we'll cover confidential filing options that protect your privacy.
Document Preparation
We prepare the petition, Order to Show Cause, proposed Decree, and all supporting documents. We also explain the publication requirement, applicable exceptions, and how to request a waiver if publication would put you at risk.
Filing & Court Instructions
We provide clear instructions for filing with the court, handling the publication requirement (if applicable), and attending your hearing. After approval, we can also provide guidance on updating your Social Security card, driver's license, and other identification documents.
Important: We cannot represent you at name change hearings or advise on whether to file. We prepare documents at your direction. Name changes with fraudulent intent (evading creditors, criminal liability, etc.) are prohibited — we prepare documents only for lawful purposes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to publish my name change in a newspaper?+
In most cases, yes — California law requires publication of the Order to Show Cause in a newspaper of general circulation for four consecutive weeks before the hearing. However, there are important exceptions: if the name change is to conform to gender identity, or if publication would put you at risk (such as in domestic violence or stalking situations), the court can waive the publication requirement. We explain all your options during the consultation.
How long does a name change take in California?+
Timelines vary by county, but you can generally expect 8-12 weeks from filing to the court hearing. The publication period accounts for about 4 weeks of that. After the court approves the Decree, you'll need certified copies to update your identification — we'll explain the whole timeline during your consultation.
Can both parents file for a minor name change if one parent disagrees?+
For a minor name change, California requires notice to both parents. If one parent objects, the court will hold a hearing to determine whether the name change is in the child's best interest. We prepare the petition at the direction of the filing parent, but we cannot predict the outcome if the other parent contests it.
What documents will I need to update after my name change is approved?+
After the court grants your name change, you'll want to update: Social Security card, California driver's license or ID, passport, voter registration, bank accounts, insurance policies, and employer records. We provide guidance on the order of updates — starting with Social Security — to make the process as smooth as possible.
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Ready to Change Your Name?
Schedule a free consultation to discuss your name change paperwork. Response within 24 hours.