Name Change Services

Name changes for adults or children

Sometimes a name change is important for moving forward after a marriage or divorce. A fresh name can help launch someone into a new life, such as name-changes for kids following a divorce.

For adult name-change services, the process is straightforward. Here in AZ, anyone 18 or older is considered an adult and may legally change his or her name.

Requirements for changing a name in AZ

Ultimately, it’s up to the court to decide whether to allow a name change. The court has reasons for not allowing a particular name change.

For example, changes are not allowed if the court suspects an attempt to avoid civil judgments, debts, or criminal prosecutions, or to defraud people. If a name change might cause conflict or confusion because of an existing name already in use, the court may decline to allow such a change.

In general, courts have held that reasonable grounds for changing a name are those which are consistent with the overall public interest. Common situations that spark a name change include:

• Marriage
• Divorce or dissolutio
• Child custody or adoption
• Stage names or professional names
• Religious or spiritual purposes

Requirements for giving notice

The court may order a notice of your proposed name change to be published in a newspaper or other local-circulation media outlet. You may be required to send a written notice with legal service (confirmed delivery) to interested individuals or organizations.

During a brief hearing, the court considers your application. If your legal documents and evidence support it, the court may order a change of name at the hearing.

After that, you’re free to begin using your new legal name!

It’s possible that someone may object to a name change. The court has the discretion to consider any reasonable objection to a name change. One of the key criteria for approving a name change is if it would be in the public interest.

Conditions for changing a name

• If you’ve even been convicted of a felony
• If you have any criminal or civil charges pending, in particular, those involving misrepresentation or identity theft
• If you’re knowingly using the name of another person in order to commit or further a crime
• Acknowledgment of the fact that changing a name won’t release you from any previous obligation

Expert legal document preparation service for your AZ name change

When you’re thinking about something as important as changing a name – especially when children are involved – it’s important to complete the process correctly the first time. The professionals at AZ Diamond Docs can help,

Our team of experienced document preparers can help you prepare a strong application for successful results. And we’ll guide you through the entire process of filing and following up.

Ready to change a name? Just contact us today!