INSTRUCTIONS: PETITION FOR CHANGE OF NAME CIV-700

This process usually requires you to publish your change of name in the newspaper. However, if you feel your personal safety is affected by such publication, ask the judge to waive the requirement.

“Petition for Change of Name CIV-700 Step 1”

In black ink, write what city the court is located in at the top of the form. On the “petitioner” line, use your current legal name. Leave the case number blank; the clerk will fill in this line.

“Petition for Change of Name CIV-700 Step 2”

After you’ve completed the rest of the blanks on the form, sign the form using your current legal name in front of Notary Public. Bring a photo ID with your when having the form notarized.

“Petition for Change of Name CIV-700 Step 3”

Make a copy of this form and file the original with the nearest superior court. You’ll have to pay a $150 filing fee, but ask the clerk for instructions if you cannot pay the fee. You’ll have to fill out Form TF-920.

“Petition for Change of Name CIV-700 Step 4”

You’ll receive a notice about the hearing stating the date of the hearing, whether you need to publish notice, what newspaper you have to publish notice in, and more. The hearing will typically occur around 40 days after the date you receive notice.

“Petition for Change of Name CIV-700 Step 5”

If you published notice, the newspaper will give you an Affidavit of Publication and you’ll have to file the form with the court before the hearing.

“Petition for Change of Name CIV-700 Step 6”

During the hearing, you have state why you want to change your name and tell the judge you’re not trying to avoid debts or cause fraud. If the judge agrees to the name change, he or she will sign a judgment ordering your name to be changed. NO NOT start using your new name yet.

“Petition for Change of Name CIV-700 Step 7”

If you’re required to publish notice, you can publish a “Notice of Judgment” in the newspaper within 10 days of the date of the judgment. Return an affidavit to the court again.

“Petition for Change of Name CIV-700 Step 8”

You will receive a Certificate of Name Change (CIV-705). You can start using your new name on the date specified on the certificate.