Do You Need a Court Petition?

Not every name change requires going to court. If you are changing your name because of marriage, your marriage certificate is generally enough to update Social Security, your driver's license, and other records. In a divorce, the final judgment can restore a former name. A court petition is needed when you want to change your name for any other reason, such as personal preference, a gender transition, or a family situation.

The Legal Basis

Adult name changes in Florida are handled by the circuit court under Florida Statutes section 68.07. You file a sworn petition in the county where you live. The petition states your current name, the name you want, your date of birth and address, and the reason for the change.

Step-by-Step Process

  • Complete the petition. It must be signed under oath and notarized.
  • Get fingerprinted. Before the hearing, you must submit fingerprints for a state and national criminal history check. This is not required if you are only restoring a former name.
  • File with the clerk. You pay the filing fee, which is typically around $400 and varies by county, plus fingerprinting costs.
  • Attend the hearing if one is set. Some judges rule on the paperwork alone, while others require a brief hearing.
  • Receive the final judgment. This is the court order that legally changes your name.

Reasons a Court May Deny a Request

Courts generally grant name changes unless the purpose is to avoid debts, evade the law, or defraud others. People with certain criminal histories may face extra scrutiny. Honest disclosure on the petition is important.

What to Update After the Judgment

Request several certified copies of the final judgment, then update your records in this order for the smoothest result:

  • Social Security Administration
  • Florida driver's license or ID
  • Passport
  • Banks, credit cards, and employer payroll
  • Voter registration, insurance, and your will, trust, and beneficiary designations

Name Changes for Children

A minor's name change requires a petition and generally the consent of both parents. If one parent will not consent, the court decides based on the child's best interests. If you are dealing with a family situation like this, we can help.

How We Can Help

We prepare and file name change petitions for Florida residents, in person or by video call, and make sure the paperwork is complete the first time.