How Do I Legally Change My Name in Georgia

Changing your name is a big decision and can have a significant impact on your life. Whether you are getting married, divorced, or simply want a fresh start, it`s important to understand the legal process for changing your name in Georgia.

Legal Requirements

In Georgia, the process for changing your name is governed by state law. The legal requirements for changing your name in Georgia include:

Requirement	Details
Residency	You must be a resident of Georgia in order to legally change your name in the state.
Age	You must be at least 18 years old to change your name without parental consent.
Criminal Record	If you have a criminal record, you may be required to disclose this information as part of the name change process.

Legal Process

The legal process for changing your name in Georgia involves several steps, including filing a petition with the court, publishing a notice of the name change, and attending a court hearing. The specific requirements and procedures may vary depending on the county in which you reside.

Common Questions

Here are some common questions related to changing your name in Georgia:

Question	Answer
How long does the name change process take?	The process typically takes 2-3 months from start to finish.
Can I change my child`s name?	Yes, you can change your child`s name by following the same legal process.
Can I change my name after getting married?	Yes, you can take your spouse`s last name or create a new hyphenated name.

Changing your name is a personal decision and the legal process can seem daunting. However, with the right guidance and understanding of the legal requirements, you can successfully change your name in Georgia. It`s important to consult with a qualified attorney to ensure that you complete the process correctly and comply with all legal requirements.

Legal Contract for Name Change in Georgia

Changing your name is a significant legal and personal decision. The following contract outlines the process and requirements for legally changing your name in the state of Georgia.

Party 1	Party 2
Name Change Applicant	Legal Services Provider
State Georgia	Georgia Bar Association

This Name Change Contract („Contract“) is entered into as of the date of the last signature below by and between the Name Change Applicant and the Legal Services Provider. This Contract governed the laws the State Georgia.

1. Legal Representation

The Legal Services Provider agrees to represent the Name Change Applicant in the process of legally changing their name in Georgia. The Name Change Applicant agrees to cooperate with the Legal Services Provider and provide all necessary information and documentation as required.

2. Name Change Petition

The Legal Services Provider will file a name change petition in the appropriate court in the county where the Name Change Applicant resides. The Name Change Applicant understands that the court may require a valid reason for the name change and agrees to provide such reason if necessary.

3. Publication Notice

The Name Change Applicant understands that Georgia law requires notice of the name change to be published in a newspaper of general circulation. The Legal Services Provider will handle the publication and notice requirements as per the laws of Georgia.

4. Court Hearing

The Name Change Applicant agrees to appear at the scheduled court hearing for the name change petition. The Legal Services Provider will represent the Name Change Applicant in court and present the necessary evidence and documentation in support of the name change.

5. Name Change Approval

If the court approves the name change petition, the Legal Services Provider will obtain a certified copy of the court order granting the name change. The Name Change Applicant agrees to provide all necessary information and pay any applicable court fees as required by the court.

6. Legal Fees

The Name Change Applicant agrees to pay the Legal Services Provider for their representation in the name change process. The parties agree that the legal fees and expenses will be determined based on the complexity of the case and the services provided by the Legal Services Provider.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties have executed this Contract as of the date first above written.

Name Change Applicant Signature	Legal Services Provider Signature
[Name Change Applicant Signature]	[Legal Services Provider Signature]
Date: [Date]	Date: [Date]

Legal Name Change in Georgia: Your Top 10 Questions Answered

Question	Answer
1. Can I change my name legally in Georgia?	Oh, absolutely! You can change your name legally in Georgia through a court petition. It`s a process, but it`s totally possible.
2. What is the process for changing my name in Georgia?	Alright, so here`s the deal. You`ll need to file a petition with the superior court in the county where you live. Then, you`ll have to attend a court hearing to explain why you want to change your name. If the court approves, you`ll receive a court order granting the name change.
3. Do I need a lawyer to help me with the name change process?	Nope, you don`t necessarily need a lawyer, but it can definitely make the process smoother. If you`re dealing with any legal complications, having a lawyer by your side can be a big help.
4. Are there any restrictions on the name I can choose?	Well, you can`t go and choose a name that`s intended to commit fraud or harm someone else. Other than that, the choice is pretty much yours! Just keep it respectful and you should be good to go.
5. What if I want to change my child`s name?	Changing a child`s name follows a similar process, but both parents or legal guardians usually need to agree on the change. If there`s any disagreement, things can get a bit trickier, but it`s definitely possible.
6. How long does the name change process take in Georgia?	Oh, you`re lookin` at a few months here. The court process can take a bit of time, especially if there are any complications or delays. But if all goes smoothly, you`ll have your new name in no time!
7. Will changing my name affect my credit, ID, and other legal documents?	It sure will! Once you have that court order in hand, you`ll want to update your name with all the necessary agencies and institutions. That means updating your driver`s license, social security card, bank accounts, and more. It`s a bit of a paperwork party, but it`s gotta be done.
8. What about changing my name after marriage or divorce?	Changing your name after marriage or divorce is a bit of a different process, but it`s also totally doable. In Georgia, you can request a name change as part of your divorce decree or use your marriage certificate to update your name after tying the knot.
9. How much does it cost to change my name in Georgia?	It`s gonna cost ya a bit of coin, my friend. The filing fee for a name change petition in Georgia varies by county, but it`s usually a couple hundred dollars. And don`t forget to budget for any additional costs, like updating your IDs and legal documents.
10. Can I change my name back to my previous name after a divorce?	Absolutely! If you changed your name as part of your marriage and later want to go back to your previous name after a divorce, you can request a name change as part of your divorce decree. It`s all about going through the proper legal channels.