INSTRUCTIONS: CHANGE OF NAME (Rhode Island) PC-8.1

“Change of Name (Rhode Island) PC-8.1 Step 1”

In the caption, provide information for the County Probate Court. In the “Estate of” section, state the name of the petitioner or the minor child. If the petitioner or minor goes by any aliases, provide the names on the given lines. Do not fill out the case number or date.

“Change of Name (Rhode Island) PC-8.1 Step 2”

Check the appropriate box at the top of the Petition. Then, provide, the current name, physical address, mailing address (if different), and telephone number of the petitioner or minor. In the next set of lines, provide the name on the petitioner’s or minor’s original birth certificate. Then provide the date of birth and place of birth.

“Change of Name (Rhode Island) PC-8.1 Step 3”

In the next set of lines, provide the full names of the mother and father of the petitioner or minor. Then, list the petitioner’s occupation and marital status.

“Change of Name (Rhode Island) PC-8.1 Step 4”

In the next section, list the past address of the petitioner. In the next section, provide specific reasons for the change of name, and then provide the requested name on the line below.

“Change of Name (Rhode Island) PC-8.1 Step 5”

If petitioning for the name change of minor, the signature of the father and mother are required. If either parent cannot be located, Form PC—9.1 Waiver is required. The petitioner must sign the form in front of Notary Public. If the petition is for a child, the petitioner needs to provide their relationship to the child.

“Change of Name (Rhode Island) PC-8.1 Step 6”

After filing the Petition and paying the filing fees at your local Probate Court, a petitioner must have their fingerprints scanned if they are changing their name. The fingerprints are sent to the Bureau of Criminal Identification. The report received from the BCI needs attached to the Petition along with a certified copy of a birth certificate.

“Change of Name (Rhode Island) PC-8.1 Step 7”

The petitioner will receive a hearing date and time from the Clerk. If the judge approves the change of name during the hearing, they will sign the Decree. Obtain certified copies of the Decree from the Clerk to change important records.