Minor Name Change in Alabama

How To Change Child Name in Alabama?

A minor name change is a legal procedure that enables a person to change their name without having to undergo a formal court proceeding. Typically, a minor name change is requested when someone wishes to modify their first or middle name but not their last name. The process for a minor name change varies by state but usually involves filling out a petition or application form, submitting it to the relevant government agency, and paying a fee.

Once the application is processed and approved, the applicant receives a court order or certificate of name change, which can be used to update their identification documents, such as a driver's license, passport, and social security card. However, it's important to note that a minor name change doesn't alter a person's legal identity or erase their previous name from legal records. Instead, it simply allows the person to use a new name in their daily life and on their identification documents.

Who qualifies for a minor name change case in Alabama?

In Alabama, a minor name change case can be filed by either the minor's parent or legal guardian on behalf of the minor. The parent or legal guardian must provide a valid reason for the name change and demonstrate that it's in the best interest of the child. The process for a minor name change in Alabama typically involves submitting a petition to the probate court in the county where the minor resides, along with any required documentation and a filing fee. After the petition is reviewed and approved by the court, a court order will be issued, which can be used to update the minor's identification documents.

If the child is 10 years of age or older, the child must also sign the petition. If there is another parent who shares parental rights and responsibilities, they must be given notice of the name change and have the opportunity to contest it. In some cases, a court may also require consent from the other parent or proof that the other parent has been properly notified of the name change request.

What are the eligibility criteria for filing a minor name change in Alabama according to the law?

To file a minor name change in Alabama, there are certain legal requirements that must be met. These include:

• The minor must be a resident of Alabama.
• The person filing the petition must have legal custody or guardianship of the minor.
• The petition must include a valid reason for the name change, such as adoption, divorce, marriage, or personal preference.
• The minor name change petition must be submitted to the probate court in the county where the minor currently resides.
• The petition must include the minor's current name, the proposed new name, and any other relevant information about the minor and their family.
• A filing fee that varies by county must be submitted along with the petition.

In addition to these requirements, the person filing the petition may be required to provide additional documentation, such as proof of identity for the minor and the person filing the petition, as well as documentation to support the reason for the name change. Once the petition is filed and all requirements are met, the probate court will review the petition and may schedule a hearing to consider the request. If the court approves the name change, a court order will be issued, which can be used to update the minor's identification documents.

How much does it cost to file a child name change case in Alabama?

The filing cost for a minor name change petition in Alabama can differ depending on the county, with fees ranging from $100 to $200. Additional fees may also apply for copies of documents or other services, which can vary by court. It's essential to verify with the specific probate court in the county where the petition will be filed to determine the exact fees and any other expenses associated with the name change process. If you're facing financial difficulties, you may request a waiver of the filing fees by submitting a Statement of Inability to Afford Payment of Court Costs. Individuals with low income may qualify for a waiver of the filing fee. Relevant resources should be consulted for additional information on court fees and waivers.

Where I can file a minor name change case in Alabama?

To initiate a name change process for a minor child in Alabama, you must submit a petition to the district court of the county where the child resides. The district clerk's office can provide you with the necessary forms and information about the filing procedure, and you can contact them for assistance. Since family law matters, such as minor name changes, fall under its jurisdiction, the district court is the appropriate venue for this type of case. Filing the petition in the wrong county may cause delays or even dismissal of the case, so it's crucial to ensure that you file it in the correct county.

What are the steps to file a minor name change in Alabama?

The specific requirements and procedures for filing a minor name change petition can vary by county in Alabama, so it's essential to check with the probate court in the relevant county for the most up-to-date information. The procedure for filing a minor name change petition in Alabama generally involves the following steps:

• Obtain the necessary forms and instructions from the probate court in the county where the minor resides.
• Fill out the petition form, providing information about the minor's current name, the proposed new name, and the reason for the name change.
• Provide any required supporting documentation, such as proof of identity for the minor and the person filing the petition, and any documentation to support the reason for the name change.
• File the petition in person at the probate court in the county where the minor resides, paying the required filing fee.
• Attend any scheduled hearings or court appearances as required.
• If the petition is approved, obtain a court order or certificate of name change that can be used to update the minor's identification documents.

Once you have filed all the required documents and a hearing date has been set for your minor child's name change request, you will need to appear in person before the judge at the scheduled hearing. It's crucial to attend the hearing as your absence may result in the case being dismissed. If the judge grants your request for the name change, they will sign an Order approving it.

It's important to note that in some states, you may be required to bring your minor child and/or their birth certificate to the hearing. Depending on your state's specific procedures, you may also need to provide additional documentation such as photo identification and social security cards for one or both of the consenting parents. Therefore, it's crucial to check the requirements of the court in the relevant county to ensure that you bring all the necessary documents to the hearing.

Obtain a certified copy of Minor name change

To obtain a certified copy of the Order approving your minor child's name change, you need to file the signed Order with the court clerk. The clerk will then issue you a certified copy of the Order, which you can use to update your child's name on important documents such as their passport, driver's license, and Social Security card (if applicable).

It's advisable to get multiple copies of the certified Order, as you may need to provide them to various agencies to establish the legal name change of your minor child. This will help ensure that you have sufficient certified copies to use as needed and avoid any potential delays in updating your child's name on their essential documents.

File the signed order with the clerk

After the judge has signed the Order Changing the Name of a Child, you must return to the clerk's office and file the signed Order. It's crucial to note that your case is not considered final until you have completed this step. You will also need to obtain multiple certified copies of the Order from the clerk, and each certified copy will require a small fee.

These certified copies are necessary for updating your child's name on important documents such as their social security card, birth certificate, passport, and school records. Each agency needs to be notified with a certified copy of the order as per their requirement. It's also recommended to keep a certified copy of the Order for your own records.

By obtaining multiple certified copies of the Order, you can ensure that you have enough copies to provide to various agencies and keep as a backup in case any issues arise. This will help you avoid potential delays in updating your child's name on their essential documents.

Notify Agencies

After obtaining certified copies of the Order Changing the Name of a Child, it is important to inform relevant agencies about your child's new name. The process for changing your child's name with different agencies varies depending on the agency. To change your child's social security card, contact your local social security office and provide them with a certified copy of the Order and any other required documentation.

If you need to modify your child's Alabama birth certificate, contact the Alabama Department of State Health Services, Vital Statistics Unit. Information on birth certificate amendments and the application process is available on their website. If your child was born in a different state, contact the vital statistics office in that state. To modify your child's passport, contact your local passport office and provide them with a certified copy of the Order and any other required documentation.

How Legally Name Change Alabama Help you?

If you wish to change the name of your child who is under 18 years old, you must follow the official legal process for a minor name change, which varies by state with the assistance of Legally Name Change Alabama. After choosing the new name for your child, you must petition the court for the desired name changes which Legally Name Change team Alabama will guide you. This process can take several months and may require notifying relevant parties or publishing a notice in a local newspaper. To make the name change official, you must submit various forms and follow specific procedures. Legally Name Change Alabama aim is to assist you in changing your child's name as swiftly and seamlessly as possible, allowing you to focus on your other priorities.

What is the cost or filing fee for a Minor name change?

The filing fee for the married name change is $89.95 and $119.95 for expedited service. Once you file with us Legally Name Change team will assist you in preparing your documents to be submitted in court and provide step-by-step guidance so that your case proceeds smoothly.