Do You Want A New Name?

With Pope Francis’ visit upon us and the recent celebration of the Jewish New Year, many Floridians are looking inward and have decided that they want to turn over a new leaf. For some, that may include a decision to adopt a new legal name.

Fortunately, Florida has procedures that permit most adult residents to change their name.

Upon the filing of a lengthy petition for change of name and the submission of fingerprints for a statewide and federal background check, a judge will hold a hearing to determine if the applicant is eligible for a name change.  The main reasons why a judge would deny a name change are because (i) the petitioner has been convicted of a felony and has not has his or her rights restored, or (ii) it otherwise appears that the petitioner is looking to change his/her legal name for illegal or ulterior purposes (for example, to avoid paying a debt).

If you have questions about changing your legal name in Florida, schedule a consultation with Adam B. Cordover at (813) 443-0615 or fill out our contact form.