FAQs about Family Law

How to change your name

Everyone can change their name at any time, provided there is no intention to deceive or defraud another person. There is no legal procedure or formalities to follow in order to change a name. You can simply start using your new name.

If you need evidence that your name has been changed, you will have to go through a formal procedure and obtain:

  • a letter from a responsible person
  • a public announcement
  • a statutory declaration
  • a deed poll

However, you cannot change your name:

  • if you have “fraudulent intent
  • to a trademarked name or famous person’s name
  • to numbers or symbols
  • to violent words

If your application is successful, the court will give you a public record of the change and a right to your new name. It can be then used as the new name for all purposes.

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