10/06/2008
What’s in a name?
Many people do not realise that you can call yourself anything you want to. However, you will often require formal evidence such as if you want to open a bank account or get a passport. Frequently women want to change back to their maiden name following a divorce.
For anyone over the age of 18 years changing your name is a relatively simple task. You will have to prove your existing identity to a solicitor who will then prepare a Change of Name Deed. It is always useful to have a few copies certified by the solicitor for future use; you can then simply produce the original or certified copy when required.
It is more difficult to change the name of a child you should seek expert legal advice. Only people who have parental responsibility for a child can change a child’s name. A mother has parental responsibility automatically. A father does not have parental responsibility automatically unless –
• he was married to the child’s mother when the child was born • he subsequently married her • if she agrees to it through a parental responsibility agreement • if the Court has ordered it • if the father’s name is on the birth certificate and the child was born after 1st December 2003 You do not need the agreement of everyone with parental responsibility unless there is a residence order in force but it is a good idea to try and get agreement, as it may save being on the receiving end of proceedings to change the name back.
So, changing your name can be a simple inexpensive procedure but there are pitfalls for the unwary particularly in relation to children. |
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