Changing your name in Virginia is a straightforward legal procedure. Whether prompted by marriage, divorce, or personal reasons, the state outlines a clear path to make it official. Understanding each step will help you manage the process efficiently.
Filing a petition with the court
Begin by submitting a petition to the circuit court in your locality. This document must include your current legal name, the name you wish to adopt, and a rationale for the change. Courts may inquire whether the request is for deceptive purposes, so accuracy and transparency are important. Expect to pay a filing fee, which varies by jurisdiction.
Publishing notice of the name change
Virginia typically requires adults to publish notice of the name change in a local newspaper. This allows public objections if any arise. You may request the court to waive this requirement in cases involving safety or privacy concerns. For minors, the publication requirement is often relaxed or omitted.
Attending the court hearing
If the court schedules a hearing, arrive punctually and bring valid identification along with supporting documentation. These hearings are usually brief. The judge will review your request and may ask a few clarifying questions. Upon approval, the judge will sign an order formalizing your name change.
Getting certified copies and updating records
Once your request is granted, obtain certified copies of the court order. You’ll need these to update your personal records—Social Security, Department of Motor Vehicles, passport, and others. Each institution has its own protocol, but the certified order generally suffices. Also remember to notify banks, employers, insurance companies, and healthcare providers.
Virginia’s name change procedure involves several well-defined steps: petitioning the court, publishing notice, attending a hearing, and updating records. Once the court approves your request, the certified order serves as legal proof to update your name across all official documents.
